Mission imposes fire ban
All open fires are banned in Mission until further notice.
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Updated: July 23, 2009 3:36 PM
Put away the matches and the kindling, because as of noon July 24, there is a complete ban on outdoor fires in the District of Mission.
The municipality is putting the ban in place after discussions province-wide with Coastal Fire Centre, which is saying B.C. is too dry to risk more fires. Also, said Mission Fire/Rescue Chief Ian Fitzpatrick, the Kelowna fires have stretched provincial resources to their limit, which could spell disaster for any fires that sprung up locally.
Fitzpatrick did a tour of the Florence and Stave Lake areas Sunday evening, and found two campfires that were left unattended by people who had been camping that weekend and departed without fully extinguising the fires.
The ban includes all campfires, residential burning, and fires in registered backyard pits, however, using a barbecue is still permitted, he said, adding the restriction will remain in place until further notice.
"There will be zero tolerance for people who choose to decide to have a fire," the chief warned. "There will be no warnings, and you could be fined."
Fines can range as high as $300, and more if fire apparatus must attend. Any homeowner who doesn't extinguish a fire after being told to do so, will have to pay the roll-out costs of fire department vehicles and members. An engine with crew will cost violators $480 an hour, and if it's a large blaze and a tanker is required, that adds another $240 an hour to the bill. If these fees aren't paid in a timely fashion, the amount is tacked onto the municipal tax bill.
Fitzpatrick said to call 911 if any fire is noticed, and to call 604-820-3793 for more information.
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