Full ban placed on open fires within City of Nanaimo limits

Dry, hot conditions can easily lead to wildfires

Summary

Following a Provincial order, the City of Nanaimo has placed a ban on all open fires. These include: sky lanterns, tiki torches, fireworks, firecrackers, chimineas, incinerators, burning barrels, burning cages and binary exploding targets used for target practice and any stove or portable campfire devices that have not been CSA or ULC approved are also not permitted. To know if a device is CSA or ULC certified, check for a sticker with those initials on the device. With hotter weather comes an increased risk of any fire spreading quickly. It is important for residents to be vigilant in fire safety and to report all fires immediately by calling 911.

The following devices are permitted for cooking and heating: cooking devices fuelled by propane, natural gas, naphtha, kerosene, charcoal briquettes or electricity such as barbecues, grills, smokers and portable or fixed campfire devices. Ensure that barbecue briquettes are fully extinguished after use.

Park and trail users are reminded that smoking and fires are not permitted in City parks or on City trails.

Link to Strategic Plan: Fire bans support public safety and contribute to a Liveable community.

Key Points

  • The ban is enacted because of high temperatures and no rain in the immediate weather forecast.
  • This fire ban applies to all outdoor fires, except for those permitted fire and outdoor cooking options listed above.
  • Failing to adhere to fire bans and restrictions can lead to serious fines and penalties.

Quotes

"The hot, dry weather we have been experiencing have created conditions that are prime for wildfires. We are already seeing out of control fires around BC with devastating outcomes. Nanaimo firefighters have been responding to a number small fires, which to this point have been extinguished. Residents are reminded that just one spark can ignite a wildfire. Please take all precautions to make sure everyone has a safe summer."

Fire Chief
Nanaimo Fire Rescue

Quick Facts

  • Solid fuel fires, such as wood fires, produce embers that can be extremely dangerous when combined with hot, dry, windy conditions.
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Contact:

For media enquiries, please contact
Communications
City of Nanaimo
250-754-4251

Print News Release

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