Open and backyard burning is now prohibited in the Highlands until further notice. This ban includes all campfires, incinerators and wood stoves.
“It’s too hot, too dry,” said Gregg Fletcher, Highlands Deputy Fire Chief.
Over the course of the long weekend, crews responded to a number of reports of smoke in the area and Fletcher noted that after significant time was spent searching for the source, the majority were caused by campfires. That was a contributing factor to the decision to close burning for the season, which took effect Monday. No burning permits will be issued in the district until further notice or Oct. 15.
Metchosin fire crews also spent the weekend chasing smoke, but the cause was eventually determined to be a bright light. Branches were waving in front of it, giving the illusion of flames.
As of Tuesday, the British Columbia Wildfire Service classified the West Shore as high risk but local departments are warning it’s only a mater of time before that is moved to extreme.
