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City of Nanaimo enacts open fire ban after spell of hot, dry weather

Burning ban takes effect today, Aug. 4
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City of Nanaimo has issued a ban on open fires as of today, Aug. 4. (News Bulletin file photo)

Similar to the B.C. government’s campfire ban, City of Nanaimo is issuing a ban on open fires.

Effective today, Aug. 4, a majority of outdoor fires, including cooking fires, are not permitted in the city, a press release stated.

Cooking devices fuelled by propane, natural gas, naphtha and kerosene, as well as those that use charcoal briquettes or electricity, are permitted at private residences, however, and the city advises people to ensure charcoal is fully extinguished after use.

With recent hot and dry weather, Nanaimo Fire Rescue is continually responding to accidental fires, the city said in the press release, and residents are asked to be extremely cautious when extinguishing smoking-related materials.

“Hot, dry weather increases the risk of wildfires,” said Tim Doyle, Nanaimo Fire Rescue chief, in the press release. “We are already seeing out-of-control fires around B.C. We would like to remind residents that just one spark can ignite a wildfire. Please take all precautions to make sure everyone has a safe summer.”

The city also reminds residents that smoking is not permitted at its parks.

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