PORT MOODY – As directed by the Coastal Fire Centre of the BC Wildfire Service, Port Moody Fire Rescue announces all open fires are banned within the municipal boundaries of the City of Port Moody, effective 12 noon, Thursday, July 6, 2017. This open fire ban will remain in effect until October 21, 2017, or until otherwise noted.

Prohibited activities and devices include: any open fire for personal warmth or cooking; portable wood burning devices; tiki torches; and sky lanterns. The ban does not apply to CSA- or UL-rated cooking stoves that utilize propane or charcoal briquettes, or portable campfire devices that utilize charcoal briquettes, or liquid or gaseous fuels, as long as the flame height does not exceed 15 centimetres.

“The burning restrictions are needed to reduce the chance of accidental fires in both wooded and urban areas,” says Port Moody Fire Chief Ron Coulson. “The recent and continuing warm weather creates dry forest conditions, which leads to a higher risk for accidental fires. I encourage all Port Moody residents to do their part and follow the open fire ban, to keep their family, their neighbours, and our surrounding natural environment safe this summer.”

Port Moody Fire Rescue maintains a four-step fire hazard rating with signage displayed at the northwest corner of Ioco Road and Murray Street. This rating has been elevated to “high.” The open fire burning ban will remain in effect until there is significant rainfall in the region. As a reminder, open fires and smoking are not permitted in City parks at any time.

Spokesperson:
Ron Coulson, Port Moody Fire Chief
604-469-4525

Media Contact:
Rosemary Lodge, Manager of Communications and Engagement
Tel: 604.469.4724
Email: rlodge@portmoody.ca