By Camille Aubin
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Jason Roe, fire chief at Invermere Fire Rescue, is advising the public to exercise caution when conducting outdoor burning. Warmer temperatures and spring winds are increasing fire danger across the Columbia Valley.
“It is extremely dry conditions for April, and we are seeing unexpecting fire behavior for this time of year,” explained Roe.
The increased temperatures cause the grass to dry and harden, which makes it more fireprone. At the moment, there are no active burning prohibitions in the Southeast Fire Centre. However, everyone is responsible for ensuring that burning takes place in compliance with the appropriate regulations. “Right now, we are hearing that most of the fires have been caused by people attempting to burn grass, and it’s getting out of control,” said Roe.
According to BC Wildfire Service, anyone conducting an outdoor burn must adhere to the following precautions: Never burn in windy conditions. Weather conditions can change quickly, and the wind may carry embers to other combustible material and start new fires. Ensure that adequate resources are on hand to control the fire and stop it from spreading. Create an appropriately sized fireguard around the planned fire site by clearing away twigs, grass, leaves and other combustible material, right down to the mineral soil. Never leave a fire unattended. Make sure that any fire is completely extinguished, and the ashes are cold to the touch before leaving the area for any length of time.
“Try to follow the FireSmart principles and get rid of all the dry, dead grass and stuff around your property,” advised Roe.
FireSmart BC recommends that homeowners take several steps to eliminate fire risks on their properties. These include creating a 10-metre buffer around their homes, removing brush, dead plants, garbage, and other items at risk of catching fire to prevent a disaster.
“You should always have a water source and hand tools available, and one big thing is that you should never leave your fire unattended,” said Roe while asking everybody to be extra cautious right now until we get some moisture.
For more information and resources, visit: https://firesmartbc.ca/.
Why is the District of Invermere still allowing the burning of yard waste at all?
Not only is a fire a hazard waiting to run away, it is also extremely polluting to the air we breathe in our neighbourhood.
Even backyard fire pits smoulder for hours after the hot burn.
There are other ways to get rid of yard wast — way station bin and landfill.