With a forecast of dry and hot weather ahead, the B.C. Wildfire Service (BCWS) has reintroduced a ban on campfires for most of the Coastal Fire Centre region. Starting at 12 p.m. PT on Thursday, July 16, all Category 1 fires will be prohibited throughout the region, except for specific areas in the North Island and Sunshine Coast fire zones. These restrictions encompass all locations beyond municipal boundaries, including most provincial parks, campgrounds, recreational sites, and Crown land.
Initially implemented in early May, the ban on campfires and other Category 1 fires marked the earliest prohibition recorded since tracking began in 2003. However, it was later lifted just before the May long weekend. Emily Fardad, a fire information officer with the BCWS stationed in Parksville, emphasized the careful consideration and evaluation involved in making such decisions, given the dynamic nature of weather conditions.
Despite the upcoming dry spell, the North Island Mid Coast Fire Zone has been spared from the ban due to a wet June, allowing campfires to continue in that area. Similarly, campfires are still permitted in the Sunshine Coast fire zone. The Coastal Fire Centre now joins the Kamloops Fire Centre as the only two regions in the province with campfire restrictions.
Reflecting on the heightened awareness following last year’s wildfires, Steve Ternes, fire chief at the Errington Fire Department, noted a significant compliance with the current fire ban, unlike previous years. Ternes highlighted the increased public consciousness and cooperation, attributing it to the tangible impact of recent wildfire events.
Fardad advised individuals in permissible areas to exercise caution when having fires, emphasizing the importance of safety measures such as having water nearby, never leaving a fire unattended, and ensuring complete extinguishment before leaving. The campfire ban is anticipated to remain effective until October 31, or until further notice.