3 wildfires burning on Vancouver Island, April average more than doubled

3 wildfires burning on Vancouver Island, April average more than doubled
CHEK

A 12-hectare fire seen from a home in Sayward (Photo: Ann Vansnick)

A 12-hectare fire seen from a home in Sayward (Photo: Ann Vansnick)

As three wildfires burn this weekend on Vancouver Island, the Coastal Fire Centre says the number of incidents last month is more than double the average.

For the last five years the number of fires for the month has been 11, however, the centre saw 27 fires last month.

All are suspected to be human-caused.

“We have not had normal participation which has led to a lot of drying… people in April weren’t being aware, it did surprise some people,” said Dorthe Jakobsen, a Fire Information Officer with the Coastal Fire Centre.

“But we are well prepared… we hope to see a change with the shift to rainy conditions this week.”

A fire burning near Sayward is being held, but has grown to 12-hectares. It was sparked after a slash pile burn got out of control Friday.

READ MORE: Crews hold 21-hectare Sayward wildfire

Another fire was sparked east of Bamfield in East Klanawa Creek, and is under control but had grown to 12 hectares after it was discovered Thursday.

It is suspected to be human-caused.

The latest fire has been found north of Jordan River and is now between two to three hectares in size. It is out of control and was discovered Saturday in the Rough Creek area.

Two helicopters and seven firefighters are on site — fifteen more personnel are on their way.

The centre is stressing to begin practicing fire safety immediately.

“Make sure [put out fires] are cold to the touch,  report what you see and FireSmart your property,” said Jakobsen.

With files from the CBC

Julian KolsutJulian Kolsut

Recent Stories

Send us your news tips and videos!