With dry and hot weather approaching, the B.C. Wildfire Service (BCWS) has reimposed a ban on campfires in most parts of the Coastal Fire Centre region. Effective from 12 p.m. PT on Thursday, July 16, all Category 1 fires will be prohibited throughout the region, except for specific areas within the North Island and Sunshine Coast fire zones. These restrictions encompass all locations outside municipal boundaries, including the majority of provincial parks, campgrounds, recreational sites, and Crown land.
Initially implemented at the start of May, the ban on campfires and Category 1 fires was lifted just before the May long weekend, marking the earliest such prohibition since records began in 2003. Emily Fardad, a fire information officer with the BCWS stationed in Parksville, emphasized the careful consideration and evaluation involved in making these decisions, which are subject to daily reevaluation due to the dynamic nature of weather conditions.
While the North Island Mid Coast Fire Zone experienced a wet June, allowing for campfires to remain permitted in that area, campfires are also still allowed in the Sunshine Coast fire zone. The Coastal Fire Centre now joins the Kamloops Fire Centre as the two regions in the province with campfire restrictions.
In the mid-Island region, the recollection of last year’s wildfires has heightened concerns among residents. Steve Ternes, the fire chief of the Errington Fire Department, noted a significant increase in compliance with the fire ban compared to previous years, attributing it to heightened awareness following last year’s impactful wildfire season.
Fardad emphasized the importance of practicing fire safety in areas where campfires are permitted, advising individuals to always have eight liters of water nearby, never leave a fire unattended, and ensure that a fire is completely extinguished and cool before leaving it unattended. The campfire prohibition is anticipated to remain in effect until October 31 unless rescinded earlier.