Campfire ban expands across most of Vancouver Island as temperatures climb

As the weather begins to heat up, the BC Wildfire Service is expanding its campfire restrictions across much of the coast, including most of Vancouver Island.

Beginning at 12 p.m. on Thursday, July 16th, Category 1 campfires will be prohibited throughout most of the Coastal Fire Centre as hot and dry conditions continue to increase wildfire risk.

The move comes as Greater Victoria is expected to see temperatures in the mid-20s this week before a chance of showers on Thursday, followed by a return to sunshine through the weekend and highs climbing to 28°C by Monday.

The expanded order means Category 1, Category 2 and Category 3 open fires will be prohibited across most of Vancouver Island, with a few exceptions.

Category 1 campfires will still be permitted in the Campbell River Forest District, North Island Central Coast Forest District, Haida Gwaii Forest District and Sunshine Coast Forest District.

The BC Wildfire Service says the prohibition is intended to reduce the risk of human-caused wildfires and help protect public safety as conditions become more favourable for fire activity.

The restrictions are expected to remain in place until October 31st, unless they are lifted earlier.

Anyone planning to camp in areas where Category 1 campfires are still allowed is reminded to use caution by avoiding fires during windy conditions, maintaining a fuel break around the fire, never leaving it unattended and ensuring it is completely extinguished before leaving the site.

The existing prohibition on Category 2 and Category 3 open fires also continues, along with restrictions on fireworks, binary exploding targets, burn barrels, burn cages, controlled air incinerators, air curtain burners and carbonizers.

The restrictions apply to all areas outside municipal boundaries, as well as provincial parks, recreation sites, ecological reserves, wildlife management areas and private managed forest lands.

Municipalities may have their own fire restrictions in place, so residents are encouraged to check local regulations before lighting any fire.

Anyone who spots a wildfire, an unattended campfire or illegal open burning is asked to report it by calling 1-800-663-5555, dialing *5555 on a cell phone or using the BC Wildfire Service mobile app.