Maple Ridge Fire and Rescue Service has issued a city-wide fire ban that came into effect Thursday, June 8, to coincide with the provincial fire ban.
Maple Ridge Fire Chief Michael Van Dop noted the ban includes the day use area and campgrounds at Golden Ears Provincial Park, which are included in the city boundaries.
Van Dop said the ban mirrors that put in place by the Coastal Fire Centre on the same day, and ensures the city can enforce a burning prohibition.
READ ALSO: Campfire ban goes into effect in the Coastal Fire Centre
The following activities are prohibited in Maple Ridge: Campfires, fireworks, sky lanterns, binary exploding targets, burn barrels, burn cages of any size or description, and air curtain burners.
“We’re in abnormally dry conditions, and we really need the cooperation of the public,” said the fire chief.
He said rural areas and the backcountry are of particular concern, and are difficult to police, but the hazard is high.
“We’re relying on appropriate behaviour from the public,” he said. “We need the public to be aware of the danger.”
Van Dop noted there have been wildfires close to residences in Mission in recent years.
The ban does not include the use of CSA-rated or ULC-rated barbeques, camping type stoves or portable campfire apparatus using camping gas, natural gas/propane, or briquette barbeques, on private property.
The city will investigate burning complaints, and Van Dop said the standard fine is $500, rising to $1,000 “if we see egregious behaviour.”
The city ban can be enforced by city bylaws officers and firefighters.
The fire ban will remain in place until Oct. 31, or until lifted by the fire department.
For more summer fire safety information and resources visit fire.mapleridge.ca.
The City of Pitt Meadows has a burning bylaw that prohibits campfires and outdoor fires at any time. Burning may be allowed on agricultural properties, with permits, during specified times of year. The city also adopts provincial fire bans in the municipality.
For information Pitt Meadows fire protection bylaws and burning regulations see pittmeadows.ca
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