If it sparks, keep it out of our parks - let's work together to prevent fires

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Friday, July 23, 2021

Keep our parks safe from fire this summer – do not barbecue, smoke or vape or use tools that cause sparks. Campfires, fuels and open flames, fireworks and motorized recreational vehicles are also prohibited in our parks. A campfire ban remains in effect and outdoor burning is prohibited.

If you see smoke, call 9-1-1.

With hot, dry weather remaining in the foreseeable forecast, fire danger conditions remain high to extreme throughout our region, meaning flames will spread quickly, with potentially devastating consequences.

The City hopes to keep parks open to promote mental well-being and physical health, but we need your help to do so. We ask people, who love our parks as much as we do, to be good stewards and keep an eye out for fire and smoke and report them quickly. We also ask our parks enthusiasts to call our Bylaw Department at 778-797-8810 to report those who are failing to be FireSmart in our parks and putting people and property at risk, since many of our green spaces are within or adjacent to neighbourhoods and Crown forests.

We also remind smokers, never throw cigarettes out car windows. Do not work outdoors with tools and equipment that produce open flames or have no spark arresters. In areas where motorized recreationalists can ride, ensure your equipment has spark arresters.