COQUITLAM, B.C. — With warmer temperatures and drier days on the horizon, the City of Coquitlam is stepping up its summer fire safety efforts to protect residents and local green spaces from the threat of wildfires.
Recognizing that a significant portion of the city is designated as "wildland/urban interface" land—where forested areas directly meet residential neighborhoods—local authorities are urging homeowners to adopt fire-safe behaviors. To help educate the public, Coquitlam Fire/Rescue is set to host a Fire Prevention Education Open House on Saturday, June 6.
Running from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at Hampton Park Elementary School, the event will feature displays of wildfire equipment and practical advice on property maintenance. Experts will be on hand to teach residents how to remove dead trees and flammable vegetation to create defensive spaces around their homes. Additionally, Emergency Management staff will provide guidance on earthquake preparedness and wildfire evacuation protocols.
Protecting the Parks: Strict Bans in Effect
During the summer months, the city is implementing stringent rules to safeguard its parks and trails. Smoking, including the use of e-cigarettes, is strictly prohibited in all city parks. To emphasize the heightened risk, the standard $150 fine for this offense jumps to $500 during the summer. Littering cigarette butts will also incur a $150 penalty.
Open fires and outdoor burning are fully banned, and residents are reminded to watch for updates on the city's fire risk rating, which dictates when further restrictions, like barbeque bans, may be introduced.
Mitigating Risks Around the Home
Coquitlam Fire/Rescue also shared essential tips for homeowners to mitigate fire risks on their properties:
Relocate combustible debris or firewood at least 10 meters away from the house.
Prune shrubs, remove dead vegetation, and clear tree limbs within 2 to 3 meters of the ground to break up continuous fuel paths.
Keep roofs and gutters clear of dead pine needles and overhanging branches.
Exercise caution when using lawnmowers, as blades striking rocks can cause sparks. Keep vehicle exhaust systems away from dry grass.
Watching the Fire Risk Rating
City officials urge residents to monitor the local Fire Risk Rating gauge, which currently sits at "Low." Should the rating climb to the "Extreme" range for three or more consecutive days, the city may impose a widespread ban on park barbeques. Special exemption permits will be required for approved propane appliances in specifically designated park areas.
In the event of extreme, prolonged fire risk, properties adjacent to Mundy Park and the northern forested boundary may be granted relaxed summer watering restrictions to keep vegetation damp and less prone to ignition.
Air Quality and Safety
With wildfires becoming increasingly severe across British Columbia, Coquitlam has established a Clean Air Spaces program to provide relief when air quality drops. Residents are encouraged to check the city's website for resources and activation notices during periods of heavy wildfire smoke.
If you spot signs of smoke or fire anywhere in the community, authorities urge you to call 9-1-1 immediately. For more detailed information on summer fire safety or the upcoming Open House, visit the City of Coquitlam’s website.