Richmond Fire-Rescue is investigating a patch of scorched grass and burned bushes at Garry Point, which appears to be the result of a recent unreported fire.
Fire Chief Jim Wishlove described the scene as "alarming" and told the Richmond News the fire department received no calls of any fire or smell of smoke at the park recently.
The area was only discovered after Richmond News reader Allisa Ritchie sent in photos on July 7 of the damaged grass and shrubbery.
Along with the large area of burned grass, there was what appears to be a makeshift campfire, charred branches and a fallen, scorched "no open fires" sign.
Wishlove said, from his perspective, it "most likely would have been a set fire," based on what crews saw when they inspected the area on the western side of the park.
"Whether it's accidentally or by somebody doing it on purpose, we could see something was burning," he said.
"In this heat and with the dryness right now, this is exceptionally concerning."
He added the risk of a fire in Richmond is much higher right now than it would be in the fall.
Richmond Fire-Rescue is reminding all members of the public to call the fire department when they see or smell smoke, even if they are not sure it's a fire.
"Please call 911. Let our crews come and check, and if it turns out to be nothing, I'd be happier knowing we checked than to get to a fire late," said Wishlove.
He is also urging residents to be conscious of cigarettes, garbage, barbecue items or anything that could be subjected to heat, especially in dry areas and warm grass like in Garry Point Park.
Campfires and fireworks are banned in Richmond.
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