Due to a change in weather conditions, the category two and category three open fire prohibition will be lifted in the Coastal Fire Centre region starting at noon, September 18. This means all open burning will once again be permitted within the Coastal Fire Centre’s jurisdiction, which includes the qathet region.
According to a media release from the fire centre, other activities that were previously banned, but will now be permitted include: use of tiki and similar kinds of torches; use of chimineas; use of outdoor stoves or other portable campfire apparatus without a Canadian Standards Association (CSA) or Underwriter Laboratories of Canada (ULC) rating; sky lanterns; binary exploding targets; burn barrels or burn cages of any size or description; air curtain burners.
Regarding category two and category three open fires, this change will allow specific activities. A category two open fire means an open fire, other than a campfire, that: burns material in one pile not exceeding two metres in height and three metres in width; burns material concurrently in two piles each not exceeding two metres in height and three metres in width; or, burns stubble or grass over an area that does not exceed 0.2 hectares.
A category three open fire means an open fire that burns: material concurrently in three or more piles each not exceeding two metres in height and three metres in width; material in one or more piles each exceeding two metres in height or three metres in width; one or more windrows; or, stubble or grass over an area exceeding 0.2 hectares.
The release stated that although fire danger ratings have declined in the region due to recent rainfall and cooler temperatures, the public is strongly encouraged to continue exercising extreme caution with any campfire. It is the responsibility of the individual to ensure burning is done in a safe and responsible manner and in accordance with regulations, the release stated. Before lighting any fire, those planning on burning are urged to check with local government authorities to see if any local burning restrictions are in place.
In terms of campfires, a campfire is defined as any fire smaller than 0.5 metres high by 0.5 metres wide.
The release stated that people should never light a campfire or keep it burning in windy conditions. Weather can change quickly, and the wind may carry embers to other combustible material.
Maintain a fireguard around the campfire. This is a fuel-free area where all flammable materials (grass, leaves, kindling, et cetera) have been removed right down to the soil. Never leave a fire unattended.
Make sure any fire is completely extinguished, and the ashes are cold to the touch before leaving the area for any length of time.
The release stated that human-caused wildfires are completely preventable and divert critical resources away from lightning-caused fires.
To report a wildfire, call 1.800.663.5555 toll-free, or *5555 on a cell phone.
People can follow the latest wildfire news on the free BC Wildfire Service public mobile app; on Twitter at twitter.com/BCGovFireInfo; or on Facebook at facebook.com/BCForestFireInfo.
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