While Richmondites may like to venture into the dike off Westminster Highway to hang out, one resident is concerned about what they leave behind.
For the past two or three years, Dale Badh has come across the smoldering remains of bonfires, often while he is out walking his dog in the morning, left over from late-night partying and get-togethers near West Dyke Trail and the 2000-block of Westminster Highway.
Given the dry, hot summer season, Badh is concerned about the risk of a larger fire.
“It’s just a matter of time, you know? With a little bit of wind, sparks fly into dry brush, and before you know it you’ve got (a fire),” said Badh.
Last year, Richmond battled a 12.3-hectare blaze in the 55-hectare bog near No. 4 and Shell roads, Alderbridge Way and Westminster Highway.
The fire took days to control, since it burned under the peat and was hard for fire crews to access given the heavily-forested area.
“People just have total disregard,” said Badh, who has had to put out some of the bonfires himself.
“These people are totally irresponsible,” he added. “The water’s there. Get a bucket or something and put it out. But no, they would rather just walk away and leave the logs smoldering.”
Badh has also had to call the Richmond fire department, estimating that he’s contacted them at least three times this year about bonfires in the area.
Each time, said Badh, the firefighters have to bring out their buckets and walk about a block and a half up the dike to access the sites.
Richmond Fire-Rescue told the News, through the City of Richmond’s spokesperson Clay Adams, that they were aware of gatherings at various spots along the West Dyke Trail, and that they have responded to calls a few times over the past few weeks.
Most of the locations of the fires are fairly isolated, and while this is more appealing for groups to have parties, said Adams, it makes it challenging for Richmond Fire-Rescue to access the sites.
“Last year’s bog fire is an example of how careless behaviour can quickly escalate into a serious situation,” said Adams.
While the city did put up signs earlier this year prohibiting fires, said Badh, they were torn down within two weeks. Some were thrown into the water and others into the brush, he added.
“We’re just trying to figure out what it will take for these people to understand,” said Badh.
“That’s fine if you want to drink and party; that’s fine if you want to do that, but if you’re going to have a bonfire, have it right by the water and just put it out.”
Richmond Fire-Rescue was also seen putting out a fire Aug. 9 by the side of the road close to the Oakstreet Bridge onramp near Bridgeport.
Open burning backyard fires are not allowed in Richmond, and aren't permitted in vulnerable areas such as the Dyke Trail, Triangle Road and Garry Point Park, according to Richmond Fire-Rescue and the city. While the current fire danger rating is moderate, it could increase in hotter temperatures or with wind speed.
