Smoking, open air burning banned from all City of Port Coquitlam parks, trails

The City of Port Coquitlam is reminding the public that smoking and open-air burning are banned from all City of Port Coquitlam parks, trails and natural areas due to the high fire danger rating for the region.

This notice has been issued by the City of Port Coquitlam in conjunction with the Port Coquitlam Fire Department.

The high fire danger rating across the region will remain in effect until there is significant rainfall and may change to a higher rating if there is continued dry, warm weather.

As a reminder, residents and visitors must note:

• There is no open-air burning allowed in Port Coquitlam parks, natural areas and backyards. This includes campfires, open fires, charcoal or wood-burning barbecues and propane fire pits.
• Propane BBQ’s are allowed to be used in most city parks at this time except at all-weather turf fields, such as at Gates Park. Look for any signs in parks that prohibit the use of a BBQ. Never leave your BBQ unattended while it is on or hot.
• Smoking is prohibited in all city parks and trails. Forty-five per cent of all wild fires in BC in 2017 were started by humans. A cigarette butt thrown out a car window or onto the trail or grass can smoulder for hours and start a fire that may not be seen right away.
• Do not park your vehicle, motorbike or gas powered bicycle on or next to dry grass
• If you spot a fire, smell or see smoke, immediately call 911 and report your location
• Burning on agricultural properties is only allowed with a permit and at specific times during the spring and fall.

The high fire danger rating across the region will remain in effect until there is significant rainfall and may change to a higher rating if there is continued dry, warm weather.

Port Coquitlam Fire & Emergency Services staff and bylaw enforcement personnel are stepping up patrolling areas of concern that are susceptible to wildland/brush fires. Anyone found to be not following city bylaws will be given a warning or fined.

More information about wildfires is available at bcwildfire.ca/prevention.