On Monday, June 21, Squamish Fire Rescue crews responded to a bush fire on Ross Road at 11:53 a.m.
Fire crews found a very small smouldering fire of less than 1′ by 1′ in size, which they were able to quickly extinguish, said fire chief Bill Stoner.
On June 20, Squamish Fire Rescue also assisted bylaw officials with proactive patrols to spot any unpermitted campfires in the areas of Fisherman’s Park and along the Mamquam River near Paco Road.
Stoner said proactive patrols will continue throughout fire season.
He also reminded residents that fires are only allowed on private properties with a campfire permit issued by Squamish Fire Rescue, subject to conditions.
Campfires and open burning are not permitted on public lands, including along riverside beaches, within the District of Squamish Boundaries. More information can be found at squamish.ca/fire-permit.
The District of Squamish follows restrictions issued by the BC Wildfire Service for the Coastal Fire Centre, which includes Squamish.
As of noon, June 23, Category 2 and 3 open fire restrictions will be in effect.
The prohibition does not apply to campfires that are a half-metre high by a half-metre wide or smaller, or to cooking stoves that use gas, propane or briquettes.
“Everyone’s vigilance is needed as fire can spread quickly in dry conditions. Squamish Fire Rescue is urging the public to call 9-1-1 or *5555 on mobile immediately if they see smoke and suspect an unpermitted campfire,” Stoner said.
Joann Daffern says
Can the DOS do anything to prevent the sales of bundled wood from the gas stations and grocery stores in Squamish. This is a huge problem. If out-of-towner’s know the ban on camp fires, yet they see bundles of wood for sale, I mean really.