With the recent sunny days and warm evenings, Oak Bay Fire reminds residents that beach fires are not permitted in the District of Oak Bay.
Anyone coming across a beach fire producing visible flame or smoldering is asked to contact the fire department at 250-592-9121.
Beach fires extinguished by being smothered with sand have caused serious burns to adults, children and pets, notes Capt. Rob Kivell, Oak Bay’s fire prevention officer.
“The sand does extinguish the flames, however the sand continues to be heated from the radiant heat. This creates an oven-like effect which can cause very serious burns,” Kivell says. “Beach fires can only be thoroughly extinguished by being doused with copious amounts of water.”
While beach fires are not permitted, fires fuelled solely by natural gas, propane or charcoal briquettes and contained within a portable appliance or device specifically designed for that purpose are allowed.
For more information, contact the Oak Bay’s Fire Prevention Division – 250-592-9121.