As wildfire season continues within and outside of our province, it’s crucial for qathet region residents and visitors to remain vigilant and proactive here at home.
Wildfires pose a significant threat to lives, homes and our natural landscapes. Those threats surround us locally, according to qathet Regional District’s FireSmart coordinator, and were proven true near Saltery Bay last week and in two locations on the lower Sunshine Coast earlier this week. Thankfully all three fires are considered held by BC Wildfire Service.
The combination of dry conditions, high temperatures and gusty winds create the perfect storm for wildfires to ignite and spread rapidly. Summer is nowhere near over, despite the recent reprieve from high temperatures.
Don’t let a little bit of rain of late lead to complacency. The consequences can be devastating, as we've witnessed this year in Jasper and previously in Lytton when entire communities have been displaced and vast areas of forest reduced to ashes.
Follow fire bans and restrictions to the letter and avoid activities that could spark a blaze, such as discarding cigarette butts or using machinery that can generate sparks. Homeowners in wildfire-prone areas, which, let’s face it, is basically everywhere, should clear away flammable materials from their properties.
Stay informed about local fire conditions and alerts sources. Your safety and the safety of those around you depend on it.
By taking precautions, we can protect our community and the forests that surround it.
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