Oak Bay fire has responded to about 10 calls for beach fires already this year.
“As soon as the temperature starts to increase we get beach fire calls,” said Capt. Rob Kivell, fire prevention officer for Oak Bay Fire Department. “It’s always been something we deal with on an annual basis.”
Under the parks and beaches bylaw outdoor fires, including backyard burning and beach fires, are not permitted in Oak Bay. Invariably, while the flames are going or the next morning, residents call Oak Bay fire.
”The big safety concerns are that people thing their beach fire is out and it’s not. It smoulders,” Kivell said.
They’ve seen injuries hours later to children enjoying the beach barefoot or dogs out walking.
There are also air quality implications, with residences adjacent to many of Oak Bay’s beaches. Oak Bay fire has even seen fire alarm systems triggered by beach fire smoke, Kivell said.
“There’s dangers associated to the firefighters,” he added.
People will seek a secluded beach in a bid to not be spotted. That can lead to treacherous conditions for those looking to douse a fire, or fight a brush fire should it spread. Beach fires can spread quickly to adjacent homes and brush.
“There’s also the noise and partying associated with beach fires,” Kivell said. They frequently get a call when a fire is noticed, whether it’s during the fire, or the next morning to ensure it’s doused properly.
A fire fuelled solely by propane, natural gas or charcoal briquettes, may be permitted, subject to applicable local and provincial regulations.
Fires are an issue around the region this time of year. Read more:
Two weekend grass fires in Colwood deemed suspicious