Backyard Burning Restrictions effective Friday May 13 @ noon

Immediate Release 2016FLNR0087-000769 May 12, 2016 PARKSVILLE

Effective at noon on Friday, May 13, 2016,

Category 2 open fires will be prohibited in most areas of the Coastal Fire Centres jurisdiction to help prevent human-caused wildfires and protect public safety. This prohibition will remain in effect until Oct. 21, 2016, or until the public is otherwise notified. The prohibition covers all BC Parks, Crown lands and private lands within the Coastal Fire Centres jurisdiction, with the exception of the area known as the Fog Zone and the Haida Gwaii Forest District. The Fog Zone is a strip of land along the outer coast of Vancouver Island, stretching from Owen Point (near Port Renfrew) north to the tip of Vancouver Island and around to the boundary of the District of Port Hardy. This strip extends inland two kilometers from the high tide point. A map of the Fog Zone is available online: http://bit.ly/1GMvwnU Specifically, this prohibition applies to:  The burning of any material (piled or unpiled) smaller than two meters high and three metres wide. The burning of stubble or grass fires over an area less than 2,000 square meters.  The use of fireworks, firecrackers, sky lanterns, or burning barrels or burning cages of any size or description. The use of binary exploding targets (e.g., for rifle target practice).

This is the beginning, if your work includes any activities that fall under the BC Forests classification of "High Risk Activities" please ensure you are informed as to your responsibilities as you undertake these activities.  Lets all have a safe fire season.

Ross