A dirt bike caught fire “in the bush” off the Bailout trail this week, prompting a rapid response from Squamish Fire Rescue and a renewed call for riders to tighten safety practices amid extremely dry conditions, according to Squamish Dirt Bike Association president Phil Lay.
Lay said in a social media post that the bike had been briefly upside down before the fire started, although the exact cause remains unknown. The rider attempted to extinguish the flames with dirt and stayed at the scene, calling Squamish fire crews and relaying the location.
Firefighters reached the site quickly and pumped water from the Cheekeye to extinguish the blaze, Lay said. He also thanked the District of Squamish for circulating information that helped the club follow up after the incident.
With fuels tinder-dry, the association is urging riders to review their warm-weather protocols. When temperatures soar, consider heading to the lake rather than riding. Dusty trails suffer more wear and require more maintenance. Additionally, spark arresters — which are required by law in B.C. — should always be in place. Riders are also encouraged to carry extra water to douse flames or embers, maintain their machines, watch for fuel leaks, and keep dirt and debris off hot components such as header pipes.
What remains of the burned bike is expected to be removed this weekend, and the Bailout trail is closed until further notice while the club deals with the aftermath.
