Campbell River Fire Department urges residents to stay safe by respecting fire bans and reducing exposure to wildfire smoke.

The fire danger rating for Campbell River and the surrounding area continues to be high as a long stretch of dry weather and little rain continues. The risk of fire is serious, and fire bans remain in effect.

“The City of Campbell River Fire Department continues to attend calls related to burning during the provincial and municipal fire bans currently in place, and cautions residents that the conditions are volatile; even small fires can easily become out of control,” says Fire Chief, Dan Verdun. “At this time, there are 373 active fires in the province, including two out of control fires on Vancouver Island. The Mount Con Reid fire in Strathcona Provincial Park is contributing to smokey conditions in the area, along with wildfire smoke from the mainland. Please, stay vigilant, stay safe, and continue to do your part as the high-risk fire season continues.”

What You Can Do

There are many ways that residents can help limit fires within the community and prepare for and reduce exposure to smoke caused by wildfires:

• Follow all provincial and municipal regulations regarding fires and fire bans. Visit www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/safety/wildfire-status and campbellriver.ca/fire-restrictions for more information.
• The citywide municipal 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—this includes burning or torching weeds and other vegetation.
• 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, open burning, and other fire hazards 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.
• Learn about the effects of wildfire smoke and what you can do to stay safe. Visit bccdc.ca/health-info/prevention-public-health/wildfire-smoke for more information.

The use of CSA-rated or ULC-rated campfire apparatus and cooking stoves that use liquid or gaseous fuel is allowed at this time. However, this is subject to change if warranted by the conditions.

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 on City of Campbell River fire restrictions, visit campbellriver.ca/fire-restrictions.

For more information on Vancouver Island wildfires, visit wildfiresituation.nrs.gov.bc.ca/map.

FIRE BAN REMAINS IN EFFECT AS HIGH RISK FIRE SEASON CONTINUES - NEWS RELEASE - AUGUST 2023