CoFC Status Report for the week ending May 24, 2023

Overview

The unseasonably warm, dry conditions have given way to more seasonal temperatures on the coast of B.C. Any precipitation that fell was largely along the Coast mountains in the Pemberton and Fraser zones, and in Haida Gwaii.

 There are currently 5 fires burning in the Coastal Fire Centre and all are suspected to be human-caused.

 So far this year, 33 wildfires have been reported in the Coastal Fire Centre, all of which are suspected to be human-caused.

 The Coastal Fire Centre enacted a Category 2/3 prohibition on May 18, 2023 - this prohibition covers the entire centre's jurisdiction, with the exception of Haida Gwaii. The prohibition will remain in place until October 31, or until the order is rescinded. For details click here

 While campfires are NOT prohibited in the Coastal Fire Centre at this time, we ask that residents always follow the guidelines below:

• 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, and ensure it remains in control within your fireguard.

• 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.

Before lighting any fire, residents within a local government jurisdiction must check in with their local government and observe any bylaws that are in place.

Please check www.bcwildfire.ca for the most up to date information on open burning bans and current wildfires within the Coastal Fire Centre.