RDCK residents urged to burn responsibly
By Contributor
Spring days sometimes bring smoky skies as residents burn grass and brush throughout the region.
The RDCK does not have burning bylaws; however, residents living in municipalities are advised to check with their city halls to determine if they have burning bylaws, restrictions and permits. As well, the Provincial government has the Open Burning Smoke Control Regulation.
Those residents who decide to have open fires are urged to burn them responsibly and keep the following points in mind:
- The type of material to be burned (do not burn plastics and other toxic/noxious materials, only organic materials)
- The size of the area to be burned
- Wind direction and strength
- Establish fuel/fire breaks
- Have fire suppression (sprinklers, hoses)
- Make sure the fire is monitored at all times
- Ensure that the fire is extinguished
- If a fire spreads beyond control, contact your local fire department.
The City of Nelson released its burning bylaw notice last month.
For more information on regulations, restrictions, responsible burning and air quality, visit the following:
http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/epd/bcairquality/topics/backyard-burning.html
http://bcwildfire.ca/Restrictions/BackyardBurning.pdf
http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/epd/bcairquality/readings/castlegar.xml
