The Coastal Fire Centre in Parksville says the category 1 campfire ban will end at noon on August 28, 2024.
Rain and cooler temperatures have lowered the fire danger in the Coastal Fire Centre, but people are strongly encouraged to exercise extreme caution with campfires.
You will also be allowed to use Tiki Torches and similar torches, and chimineas.
Lighting a fire must be done in a safe and responsible manner, and people are encouraged to check with local governments to see if local burning restrictions remain in place.
While campfires will be allowed, Category 2 and Category 3 open fires remain prohibited, including the use of fireworks, sky lanterns, binary exploding targets, burn barrels, burn cages and air curtain burners.
These restrictions will remain in place until October 31, 2024, or until the Order is rescinded.
The Coastal Fire Centre says human-caused wildfires are completely preventable and divert critical resources away from lightning-caused fires.
According to the Coastal Fire Centre:
- A campfire is defined as any fire smaller than 0.5 metres high by 0.5 metres wide.
- 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 your campfire. This is a fuel-free area where all flammable materials (grass, leaves, kindling, etc.) have been removed right down to the soil.
- Never leave a fire unattended.
- Make sure that any fire is completely extinguished and the ashes are cold to the touch before leaving the area for any length of time.
To report a wildfire, call 1-800-663-5555 toll-free or *5555 on a cell phone.
