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Extremely dry conditions call for important reminders

NEWS RELEASE - Distributed June 17, 2019 9:30 AM

Summary

With the current dry conditions expected to continue into summer, the City of Nanaimo reminds residents to be fire smart. Most brush fires that occur within the city are the result of human carelessness, in the form of poorly discarded cigarettes either thrown from a car window or not properly extinguished in an ashtray.

Smoking and campfires are not permitted in City Parks any time of the year. Only propane BBQ's can be used with a permit or in permitted use areas. For further details or clarification on propane usage in the parks, please contact Nanaimo Parks and Recreation at 250-756-5200.

Link to Strategic Plan: n/a

Key Points

  • The City encourages all users of the parks and trails systems to use extreme caution when in the parks and on the trails, and to be aware of all fire hazards.
  • To report a fire in a City of Nanaimo park or trail, please call 911. To report a wildfire, please call 1-800-663-5555 or *5555 on most cellular networks.
  • As BBQ season is here, maintain your BBQ prior to using, be aware of your clearances near combustibles, and never leave your BBQ unattended while cooking.
  • Never dispose of a cigarette anywhere but in an ashtray or other proper receptacle.

Quotes

"We ask that everyone do their part to make sure Nanaimo's parks are safe and enjoyable for everyone. Many of Nanaimo's parks and trails are not irrigated which means the vegetation is very dry during the warm summer months. However, smoking is not allowed at any time of the year in city parks."

Richard Harding
Director, Parks & Recreation
City of Nanaimo

"As the weather stays warm and dry, the fire risk increases. Fires can quickly start and spread in these conditions so we are asking the public to be aware of the risks and be vigilant."

Karen Fry
Fire Chief
City of Nanaimo

Quick Facts

  • The City Bylaw 2008 No. 7073 states: No person shall smoke anywhere on all City managed recreation properties including: trails, plazas, parks, beaches, and recreation facilities; except in designated smoking areas. Section 3.28 states you cannot smoke contrary to any posted signs.
  • Bylaw and RCMP may issue a fine to anyone caught smoking in the parks.
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Contact:

Richard Harding
Director, Parks and Recreation
City of Nanaimo
250-755-7516
Karen Fry
Fire Chief
City of Nanaimo
250-755-4583

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