For public safety and environmental protection, the public is reminded that fires are not allowed in Victoria parks or on beaches. This includes natural gas and propane fire rings.
Tips to Prevent Grass and Bark Mulch Fires
Dry grass, shrubs and bark mulch can easily be ignited by a tossed cigarette butt, or by glass and metal that can magnify or reflect sunlight.
Below are some tips to prevent grass and bark mulch fires from starting in Victoria parks and residential gardens:
- Properly discard cigarette butts and make sure they're completely out before walking away.
- Never throw a lit cigarette out the window of a vehicle.
- Properly discard glass jars and bottles.
- Avoid parking your vehicle on dry grass or bark mulch and avoid driving through long grass.
- Avoid placing your gas or charcoal barbecue on grass or bark mulch.
- Keep bark mulch moist and avoid placing decorative lights or electric devices nearby.
The community is asked to use extra care during this hot, dry weather.
Beach Fires
Smoke from beach fires can impact air quality for nearby residents. When burned, salt-saturated driftwood releases carcinogenic dioxins into the air. Beach fires are also a risk to coastal plants, trees and wildlife and pose a risk to nearby homes.
People and pets can be seriously burned by leftover beach fires that are smothered by sand instead of water and remain hot.
For first responders, beach fires are often difficult to access due to their location. The Victoria Fire Department responds to nearly 200 beach fire calls each year that put people’s health, property and the environment at risk.
A beach fire offence can result in a fine ranging from $350 to $2,000.
To report a beach fire, please notify Victoria Fire Department Dispatch by calling 911.