Campfires, backyard fires and beach fires are not permitted from noon on Thursday, June 8.

Effective noon on Thursday, June 8, 2023, a fire ban will be in place for the City of Campbell River (the City). The ban applies to all recreational fires, including campfires, backyard fires and beach fires anywhere within the municipal boundary. All open burning and using items such as fireworks, sky lanterns, torches, and burning barrels are prohibited. The fire ban follows a long stretch of dry weather throughout spring, a rapidly increasing fire danger rating, and an active early fire season.

“The City’s top priority is public and community safety, and while we appreciate people’s love of recreational fires, the risk is too great at this time,” says Fire Chief, Dan Verdun. “We would like to thank everyone for doing their part to prevent fires in and around our community and for following the fire ban to help keep ourselves, our families and our community safe.”

The City fire ban follows the BC Wildfire Service’s announcement that prohibits campfires for the Coastal Fire Centre, which includes all of Vancouver Island and the south coast of BC. The use of CSA-rated or ULC-rated campfire apparatus and cooking stoves that use liquid or gaseous fuel is allowed at this time, however, in extreme fire conditions, these may also be prohibited.

People found in contravention of the fire ban may be subject to fines and legal action in accordance with bylaws and provincial regulations. Residents can report recreational fires using the City Fire Department’s non-emergency line at 250-286-6266. In the case of an emergency, dial 9-1-1.

For more information, visit www.campbellriver.ca/fire-restrictions.

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Contact: Dan Verdun, Fire Chief | 250-286-6266 | dan.verdun@campbellriver.ca

FIRE BAN COMING INTO EFFECT FOR CAMPBELL RIVER - NEWS RELEASE - JUNE 2023