Amidst an active early fire season, the City Fire Department urges residents to do their part.
Between Monday, June 12 and Wednesday, June 14, 2023, the City of Campbell River (the City) Fire Department responded to multiple fires in the community. Firefighters attended a brush fire in Nunns Creek Park, two wildland fires in Beaver Lodge Lands, a residential structure fire, unattended beach fires, smouldering bark mulch and stump fires, and multiple burning reports during the active fire ban.
The fire danger rating for Campbell River and the surrounding area is currently high due to a long stretch of dry weather throughout spring and little rain. The risk is predicted to remain high throughout the summer.
“With a high fire danger rating for Campbell River and the surrounding area, it is essential that residents acknowledge and follow the fire ban currently in place, as well as take steps to minimize the risk of fire whenever possible,” says Fire Chief, Dan Verdun. “Campfires during high fire risk seasons puts the community in danger. The fires that took place earlier this week had the potential to be much worse and I applaud the crews that attended these fires for their rapid responses. It is incredibly important that we all be extra vigilant this summer to help protect the community.”
How can you help?
Human-caused fires are preventable and there are many ways that residents can help limit fires within the community. The City is asking for everyone’s support to limit fires by following these steps:
- Follow the citywide fire ban currently in place. The ban applies to all recreational fires, including campfires, backyard fires and beach fires anywhere within the municipal boundary. All open burning and using items such as fireworks, sky lanterns, torches, and burning barrels are prohibited.
- Dispose of all smoking materials properly, ensuring they are completely extinguished.
- If you see a fire burning, call the fire department immediately. A quick response is critical and can help prevent a large wildfire. Residents can report recreational fires using the City Fire Department’s non-emergency line at 250-286-6266. In the case of an emergency, such as a spreading fire, dial 9-1-1.
- Follow all provincial and municipal regulations regarding fires and fire bans. Visit https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/safety/wildfire-status and campbellriver.ca/fire-restrictions.
The use of CSA-rated or ULC-rated campfire apparatus and cooking stoves that use liquid or gaseous fuel are allowed at this time.
Individuals found in contravention of the fire ban may be subject to fines and legal action in accordance with bylaws and provincial regulations.
For more information, visit www.campbellriver.ca/fire-restrictions.
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Contact: Dan Verdun, Fire Chief | 250-286-6266 | dan.verdun@campbellriver.ca
BE VIGILANT AND HELP PROTECT CAMPBELL RIVER DURING HIGH FIRE RISK SEASON - NEWS RELEASE - JUNE 2023