B.C.’s campfire ban to be lifted Friday for most Coastal Fire Centre

VANCOUVER (NEWS 1130) — Campers will be able to enjoy s’mores around a campfire again — the province has announced it will lift its existing ban in most parts of the Coastal Fire Centre starting at noon Friday.

Campfires will be permitted everywhere in the Coastal Fire Centre except for the South Island Resource District, which covers the southern third of Vancouver Island from Victoria to Union Bay. That includes Denman, Hornby, Lasqueti, Gabriola, Pender, and other smaller Gulf Islands.

The ban also remains in effect from Victoria to Nootka Sound on the West Coast, affecting Victoria, Duncan, Ladysmith, Nanaimo, Parksville, and Qualicum on the East Coast and Sooke, Port Alberni, Tofino, Ucluelet, and Bamfield on the West Coast.

campfire ban update sept 3

People are reminded to check the province’s website before lighting up a campfire to ensure there are no restrictions in their areas.

The ban was brought in at the end of June as the forecast predicted dry conditions, and the wildfire season was already underway.

The summer would see record-breaking temperatures and drought in many areas, leading some city’s to close parks in hopes of preventing more wildfires.

The ban was initially set to stay in effect until October, but the province says cooler temperatures and recent rainfall have improved conditions enough to make it safe to lift the ban on Sept. 3.

The fire danger ratings have declined in much of the province in recent days but members of the public are urged to be safe with open flames, the province says.

Campfires must stay under 0.5 metres in height and width in order to be safe. The province recommends campers avoid lighting fires in windy conditions, use a fireguard, and never leave a fire unattended.

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While campfires, torches, and outdoor stoves are allowed, fireworks, sky lanterns, burn barrels, and burn cages are still prohibited in most of the province until Oct. 15 — or until the order is rescinded.

People caught open burning can be required to pay a violation ticket of $1,150, an administrative penalty of $10,000, or a court fine of $100,000. Breaking the rules could also result in a year in jail.

B.C.’s campfire ban remains in place for the Kamloops Fire Centre, and parts of the Southeast Fire Centre. It has been lifted in the Northwest, Prince George, and Cariboo fire centres.

To report a wildfire, unattended campfire, or open burning violation, call 1-800-663-5555 or *5555 on a cell phone.

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