Smoke seen from a 1.1 hectare fire burning near Coombs Saturday (Photo: Coombs-Hilliers Volunteer Fire Department)
A significant brush fire in Coombs Saturday has officials concerned about the upcoming wildfire season.
The Coombs/Hilliers Volunteer Fire Department along with fire crews from Errington, Dashwood, Parksville and the Coastal Fire Centre battled a 1.1-hectare fire that broke out after a backyard burn got out of control around 3:30 p.m off Action Road.
They split into two divisions and attacked the fire from different sides, eventually getting it under control in six-and-a-half hours.
B.C. Ambulance was also on the scene just in case a crew member would get injured.
(Photo: Coombs-Hilliers Volunteer Fire Department)
“It is a bit concerning we are responding this early [in the year], but it was an abnormally dry March,” said Coombs fire chief Aaron Poirier.
“The public need to be much more careful, you must have water and hand tools to manage what you are burning.”
No charges were laid following the blaze.
Fire crews on the scene of the brush fire (Photo: Coombs-Hilliers Volunteer Fire Department)
Back in March B.C. Hydro said they were in full conservation mode after the lowest water inflows they’ve ever seen at their Vancouver Island dams.
Colder and dryer conditions over the winter were to blame.
Around ten days ago the Coombs/Hilliers Volunteer Fire Department responded to their first brush fire near Highway 10.
In Victoria, a large brush fire was sparked on March 16th near Dallas Road, caused by a woman trying to start a fire on the beach.
READ MORE: Woman sent to hospital after starting brush fire near Dallas Road
The public is being reminded to keep an eye on fire danger ratings as temperatures go up.
Wildfires or irresponsible fire behaviour can be reported to 1 800 663-5555 or *5555.
Julian Kolsut
