The province-wide ban on outdoor burning enacted July 12 has ended, according to fire officials, who continue to urge caution even as burning is once again permitted throughout the Coastal Fire Centre’s jurisdiction.
And despite another challenging season for fire crews in B.C., on Salt Spring Island the picture was of a generally cooler, wetter summer. Thankfully, according to Salt Spring Island Fire Rescue (SSIFR) Chief Jamie Holmes, that meant “very few” major calls during June and July.
Holmes also credited a vigilant and educated public on Monday, Sept. 16, as he presented district trustees with a report covering what are typically among the busiest months for island firefighters.
“Locally, I think that through fire prevention, FireSmart messaging and our campaigns we didn’t see any spread of campfires or backyard burning,” said Holmes, noting that the province has also been starting its burn bans earlier in the season.
“And we follow suit,” he said. “I think that’s also decreased the likelihood of calls for us. Which has been a good thing.”
The Category 2 and Category 3 open fire prohibition was officially lifted at noon Wednesday, Sept. 18, meaning along with campfires – which had been allowed again since Aug. 28 – burning in barrels, cages or piles for reasons other than recreation are permitted, as are tiki-type torches, outdoor stoves and portable campfire apparatus.
“Although fire danger ratings have declined in the region due to recent rainfall and cooler temperatures, the public is strongly encouraged to continue exercising extreme caution with any campfire,” according to a notice from the B.C. Wildfire Service (BCWS). “It is the responsibility of the individual to ensure that burning is done in a safe and responsible manner and in accordance with regulations. Before lighting any fire, check with local government authorities to see if any local burning restrictions are in place.”
On Salt Spring a permit is required for all open burning, which is issued at no cost and can be obtained online at saltspringfire.com/fire-permits-and-bylaw. SSIFR’s website has more local information, including a “cheat sheet” describing restrictions related to high-risk activities such as chainsawing and mechanical land clearing.