Editor:
I remember seeing the above sign back in the ’50s near Manning Park. It not only made an impact on me but a number of my friends also got the message and still talk about it to this day.
This past Sunday, I walked on the boulevard from 144 to 140 streets along 20 Avenue and counted 187 cigarette butts, most of which were tossed from cars. There were also a few next to the multipath on the forest’s edge and neighbours’ lawns.
Ron Meadley, president of the Sunnyside Acres Heritage Society, has been patrolling the Wally Ross parking lot and, to date, has found more than 108 butts, averaging approximately seven per day.
I would like to start a campaign on fire prevention. Fire-hazard warnings have little impact on the general public, and that is why I would like to talk to school kids about our forests, with a followup of school tours and possibly a contest of artwork and essays posted in Semiahmoo Shopping Centre, which will hopefully engage the general public.
I’d also like to see a sign at the corner of 148 Street/24 Avenue, with before and after fire photos. Something to make an impact, like Manning Park’s signage.
My target date is early September before the rains begin. I cannot do this alone. To begin this endeavour, I need media coverage and permission to enter Bayridge Elementary. Suggestions and opinions are all welcome.
Please help me keep our forests green and surrounding homes safe.
Dee Walmsley, Surrey
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Re: B.C. city wakes up to darkness under wildfire smoke, Aug. 17 www.peacearchnews.com
Given this particular headline – and about four others on your current website and in the paper – I find it appalling that certain citizens still think it is acceptable to be smoking in our local parks.
Particularly when, to enter the park, you have to walk right by a large yellow reflective sign with two large red circles on that – one containing a cigarette and one containing a fire – plus the relevant printed copy that states “No Smoking” and “No Fires.”
There is no excuse for such blatant carelessness and lack of thought for both the park and its neighbours.
South Surrey could easily be looking like Prince George in an instant if careless cigarette butts are scattered around tinder-dry grass.
Let’s all pretend we’re grown up.
Sandra Dingman, Surrey
