The Vanderhoof Fire Department has responded to three grass fires in the last month.
Most recently, one occurred by the boat launch area at the Babe Ruth Ball Diamonds on April 20.
Seven firefighters responded to the fire with shovels, axes and water cans to douse the fire.
Fire Chief Joe Pacheco said while the fires are small, they still have the potential to turn dangerous.
“We understand that this is a season that people want to do a lot of cleanup but we also want to make sure that residents are very cautious.”
“A small fire can expand very rapidly if there’s a sudden gust of wind,” he said.
He added that the fires also keep firefighters from responding to other incidents.
“If we have a serious fire that involves life-saving, then we’ve got our men tied up fighting these fires that are unnecessary right now,” he said.
Grass fires are common at this time of year, with many residents burning grass that has been killed off over the winter.
“Mostly because it’s a way of cleaning up things in a very fast way but it’s also very dangerous and it can put properties in danger of catching fire,” said Pacheco.
Anyone planning on burning any dead grass should speak to the Vanderhoof fire chief and obtain a burning permit. They are available at the district office or at the fire department.
“Come to the fire department and tell us where and when you’re burning so we can maybe have a look and advise you how to do the burning properly,” said Pacheco.
