The Central Saanich Fire Department has reiterated its current ban on fireworks, but announced that open burning and recreational fires could resume Nov. 3.
Fireworks are prohibited in Central Saanich. Due to the current weather conditions & high fire risk conditions, The Central Saanich Fire Dept. is urging people not to use fireworks or firecrackers. See our website for more information https://t.co/H97S0cyTwO #FireSafety #CSaan pic.twitter.com/pEaGsowZI8
— Central Saanich Fire (@CSaanichFire) October 26, 2022
Burning Update: Open burning & recreational fires will be permitted in #CSaanich starting Nov. 3, 2022. Online permits will be available starting Nov 1st. Remember to check the #VentingIndex prior to burning. #CSaan. For more information, see our website https://t.co/o96GDndtCi pic.twitter.com/wLP8eCbtBM
— Central Saanich Fire (@CSaanichFire) October 26, 2022
The department made the announcements through social media. The department last week had announced that all burning and recreational fires would be prohibited until further notice, citing the lack of rain and drought conditions prior to the recent run of precipitation. The local announcement comes as the Coastal Fire Centre (of which Central Saanich is part) will lift the ban on category 2 and category 3 fires starting at noon on Oct. 28.
“However, burning in Central Saanich will not be permitted until (Nov.3) and unfortunately (the department) will not be issuing permits for Halloween (fireworks) or (bonfires) this year,” reads a statement. It adds that residents can start applying for permits online on Nov. 1.
The department had earlier announced that Central Saanich’s annual Halloween bonfire and fireworks in Centennial Park would take place at a later date.
Central Saanich Fire Chief Kenn Mount earlier acknowledged the community’s disappointment, but also asked for understanding.
RELATED: Central Saanich postpones Halloween fireworks, bonfire
“The risk to our community is too great, and we ask all citizens to act responsibly, and spread the message about why it’s imperative to adjust celebrations this year,” he said.
The event organized by fire department volunteers will eventually take place under the name of Forrest Owens Memorial Fireworks in honour of the late Forrest Owens, who spearheaded the event during his extensive career with the department.
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