Richmond Fire-Rescue is reminding all residents that open burning backyard fires are not allowed in the city.
“Everyone’s safety is paramount during stretches of dry hot weather such as what we are currently experiencing,” said Deputy Chief Kevin Gray.
“At this exact time last year, we were battling an approximately 10 hectare wild land fire near Westminster Highway and Shell Road – the first of its magnitude for Richmond.”
Gray added that they were able to stop the multi-day fire, but reminds the public how terrible fires can be on the city and the environment.
Here are a few tips to help prevent fires caused by smoker’s materials:
- Never discard smokers’ materials out of vehicle windows
- Never discard smokers’ materials on the ground
- Never extinguish smokers’ materials in planted pots, bark mulch or peat moss
- Always extinguish smokers’ materials in deep, non-combustible ashtrays
- Make sure matches and cigarette butts in ashtrays are wet and completely extinguished before you put them in a garbage container
According to the City of Richmond Bylaw 6989, smoking is not allowed within nine metres of bus shelters, transit stops and customer service areas such as patios, doors, windows and air intakes.
Smoking is also not allowed at public parks, school grounds and city properties or there will be a fine of up to $1000.
The current Fire Danger Rating is Moderate in Richmond, but can change with warming temperatures.
For more information, call Richmond Fire-Rescue at 604-278-5131 or follow their Facebook @richmondfirerescue.
