Campbell River’s fire department chief is reminding the public to be extra careful, after two brush fires and ongoing hot weather.
Chief Thomas Doherty hopes everyone will be extra vigilant with recreational fires and any smoking devices.
“Fire bans could be put in place if the weather continues to be hot and dry, which places our area in a high risk of wildfire,” said Doherty in a statement.
“This Sunday’s brush fire right in town… and the [other] fire along Argonaut Road late last week are clear reminders of how dry conditions are right now.”
On Sunday a brush fire burned to within two metres of a home in Campbell River on Homewood road at 9th Avenue. The incident prompted calls from officials to clear blackberry bushes — that can serve as major fuel for flames.
READ MORE: Fire crews encourage residents to clear bushes, trees around homes
Last Thursday a fire was discovered on Argonaut Road.
By Friday, there were 16 Campbell River firefighters, seven provincial firefighters and two firefighters from Oyster River working on getting the wildfire under control. It grew to 3.4 hectares but was fully contained by Friday.
The cause of the fire is still under investigation but it is believed that a tree came down on a hydro line.
READ MORE: Firefighters putting out hot spots from wildfire near Campbell River
Dean Stoltz
