COQUITLAM, B.C., July 25, 2022 – Coquitlam Fire /Rescue is reminding homeowners who live near green spaces of simple steps they can take to help prevent wildfires.
Many homes in Coquitlam are located where wilderness and development meet, which means that fires can easily spread between vegetation and structures.
Homeowners who live near these green spaces are encouraged to take action to help prevent a wildfire from starting on, or spreading to, their property.
Tips to Reduce Fire Risks:
- Reduce the amount of fuel present around your homes; prune your shrubs, remove dead and dry vegetation, and tree limbs 2-3 metres from the ground
- Keep the roof and gutters clear of dead needles; prune branches that hang over the roof
- Break up continuous vegetation and space our planting so there is no direct line of vegetation leading to your home or garage
- Relocate debris or firewood at least 10 metres away from your home
- Be aware when mowing your lawn that if the blade comes into contact with a rock, it can cause a spark that may ignite a fire
- Do not litter cigarette butts or do any outdoor burning
- Ensure your vehicle's exhaust does not blow onto a dry lawn
For more information, visit www.coquitlam.ca/interfacefire.
Residents should take precautions against accidental fires and be alert to signs of fire. Report any signs of smoke or fire by calling 9-1-1 immediately.
Don’t Let Our Parks Go Up in Smoke
Coquitlam Fire/Rescue is asking residents to take steps that can both reduce and limit the risk of fire in our community by adhering to City bylaws that ban open air burning, littering cigarette butts and smoking in parks.
The City’s Bylaw Enforcement Officers patrol the City’s green spaces and parks and may hand out $500 fines for smoking, including vaping and cannabis, in City parks. Littering of cigarette butts can also result in a fine of $150.
All residents and park users are asked to take precautions against accidental fires and be alert to signs of fire. Report any signs of smoke or fire by calling 9-1-1 immediately.
For more safety information, visit www.coquitlam.ca/summerfiresafety.
About Coquitlam Fire/Rescue
Coquitlam Fire/Rescue’s mission is to provide a range of emergency responses, fire protection and educational programs designed to protect lives and property from the adverse effects of fire, sudden medical emergencies or exposure to dangerous conditions created by people or nature. Adopted in late 2021, the Community Wildfire Resiliency Plan outlines 43 actions aimed at reducing wildfire risk and improving the City’s response and recovery if fires do occur, and is making progress implementing high-priority actions.
Media contact:
Scott Young
Deputy Fire Chief
Coquitlam Fire/Rescue
604-927-6400
firerescue@coquitlam.ca