Aug 21, 2020

Ladysmith Fire/Rescue encourages public awareness of wildfire risk

Ladysmith Fire/Rescue (LFR) is encouraging the public to be prepared at home as hot and dry weather conditions increase the threat of possible wildfires in our area.

LFR has responded to multiple calls for bush fires in the past month.  These fire were contained due to a rapid response but had the potential to affect the community.

With the exception of fires resulting from a lightning storm over the weekend, all of these incidents were determined to be human-caused.  Knowing how to protect against the threat of a wildfire starts with knowing how to prevent one.

"We live in a beautiful rainforest on Vancouver Island. Thick forest has its beauty, but during this time of year it also has its risks," said Ladysmith Fire Chief Chris Geiger. "Dry forest is an excellent fuel source, and can very quickly become problematic for us. Whether by intent or by accident, the outcome is the same, and poses a risk to all of us in the Town of Ladysmith."

The emergency call for a bush fire on Sunday near Christie Falls was also an opportunity for LFR to implement skills from its recent wildland-urban interface training exercise.  This training included participation from an official representing both the Office of the Fire Commissioner and BC Wildfire Service.

Wildfire Information Resources

There are many available resources for members of the public to educate themselves about the threat posed by wildfires, and how best to prepare at home.

Please continue to watch for and report any fires you may see to 1 800 663-5555 or *5555 on cell phones.

FireSmart is the recognized authority on mitigating wildland fire risk.  Visit www.firesmartbc.ca or www.firesmartcanada.ca for in-depth information and downloadable tools to help you prepare your property against the threat of wildfire.

You can refer to the FireSmart Begins at Home manual for more information: https://firesmartcanada.ca/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/FS_Generic-HomeOwnersManual_Booklet-November-2018-Web.pdf

Gate Access Closed to Mosaic Lands Until Further Notice

Residents are advised that recreational weekend gate access is closed to Mosaic lands until further notice due to incidents resulting from recent lightning strikes. Public access will resume when it is safe, and active wildfire fighting is complete.

Open Fire Restrictions in Place

A reminder also that open fire prohibitions are in place for the Coastal Fire Centre area. This restriction applies specifically to Category 2 and Category 3 open burning.  A poster explaining the different categories of open burning is available online: http://ow.ly/znny309kJv5

Visit the Town of Ladysmith’s website for current fire restrictions, Coastal Wildfire News and Coastal Fire Centre: Status Reports - including active fires, fire activity and prohibitions and restrictions.

For the latest news and updates visit the Town’s website at www.ladysmith.ca, as well as FacebookTwitter and Instagram.

You can also receive up-to-date information in your email inbox by subscribing to the Town’s newsletter.