Even Vancouver is at risk for an out-of-control brush fire, say officials
Vancouver fire officials are warning that even in a big city like Vancouver, the risk of an out-of-control brush fire is high.
The warning, which came Saturday morning from Vancouver Fire Services captain Jonathan Gormick, describes the city’s fire danger level as “high” and warns residents not to be lulled into a false sense of security.
“A brush fire could become out of control in minutes, threatening structures and life,” Gormick said in a news release.
Cigarette butts are a particular concern, and if a single butt meets dry grass, Vancouver could be in for a big fire.
“Little is needed to ignite grass, brush, or any other organic matter, and that once lit, fires will spread rapidly and grow exponentially,” Gormick said.
While Vancouver may seem at less risk than other towns or cities that are bordered by large natural areas, the city’s extensive park systems, green spaces, trees and plant life mean it's still at risk. And, after a prolonged, dry spring and above-average temperatures, that vegetation is dry and vulnerable.
The warning comes after a dangerous heat wave saw multiple hot weather records broken across B.C., and as multiple areas of the province are under evacuation orders or warnings due to wildfires. It also comes after the entire town of Lytton was destroyed by a devastating fire.
Many different things could lead to an out-of-control fire in Vancouver, say officials, and all outdoor fires are banned.
“The heat from combustion-powered devices such as pressure washers and generators could easily ignite nearby material, and outdoor fires of any kind are prohibited year-round,” Gormick said.
But, the most significant risk is from cigarette butts, which cause “almost 100 per cent of Vancouver’s outdoor fires.”
To that end, Vancouver Fire Services is reminding people not to throw cigarette butts into the bushes, onto the ground, or into a planter, and that smoking is prohibited in all City of Vancouver parks.
“The risk from butts thrown from vehicles is significant, and since 2017 has been punishable with a $500 fine. Always place butts in approved containers.”
CTVNews.ca Top Stories
BREAKING Israel attacks Iran, Reuters sources say; drones reported over Isfahan
Israel has attacked Iran, three people familiar with the matter told Reuters, as Iranian state media reported early on Friday that its forces had destroyed drones, days after Iran launched a retaliatory drone strike on Israel.
American millionaire Jonathan Lehrer denied bail after being charged with killing Canadian couple
American millionaire Jonathan Lehrer, one of two men charged in the killings of a Canadian couple in Dominica, has been denied bail.
Nearly half of China's major cities are sinking, researchers say
Nearly half of China's major cities are suffering 'moderate to severe' levels of subsidence, putting millions at risk of flooding especially as sea levels rise.
Prince Harry formally confirms he is now a U.S. resident
Prince Harry, the son of King Charles III and fifth in line to the British throne, has formally confirmed he is now a U.S. resident.
Judge says 'no evidence fully supports' murder case against Umar Zameer as jury starts deliberations
The judge presiding over the trial of a man accused of fatally running over a Toronto police officer is telling jurors the possible verdicts they may reach based on the evidence in the case.
Health Canada to change sperm donor screening rules for men who have sex with men
Health Canada will change its longstanding policy restricting gay and bisexual men from donating to sperm banks in Canada, CTV News has learned. The federal health agency has adopted a revised directive removing the ban on gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men, effective May 8.
Colin Jost names one celebrity who is great at hosting 'Saturday Night Live'
Colin Jost, who co-anchors Saturday Night Live's 'Weekend Update,' revealed who he thinks is one of the best hosts on the show.
Sports columnist apologizes for 'oafish' comments directed at Caitlin Clark. The controversy isn't over
A male columnist has apologized for a cringeworthy moment during former University of Iowa superstar and college basketball's highest scorer Caitlin Clark's first news conference as an Indiana Fever player.
'Shopaholic' author Sophie Kinsella reveals brain cancer diagnosis
Sophie Kinsella, the best-selling author behind the 'Shopaholic' book series, has revealed that she is receiving treatment for brain cancer.