Vancouver Park Users Cautioned About Fire Hazards

July 23, 2004 (No. 55) - As the fire rating reached 'Extreme' today, the Vancouver Park Board is asking that people be particularly cautious about fire hazards within Vancouver parks. Especially vulnerable are heavily wooded areas in Stanley Park, Everett Crowley Park and Jericho Beach Park.

New signs have been erected in parks at strategic points which state:

Caution High Forest Fire Risk
No charcoal or wood burning BBQs
No smoking
Stay on trails
By order of Fire Chief

No open fires are allowed on Vancouver parks or beaches. Barbequing is still permitted in parks but only in portable, elevated (30" above the ground), self-contained units that are specifically designed for use with propane or camping fuel.

Park maintenance staff and park rangers will be extra vigilant during the prolonged drought. Fire prevention and safety is everyone's responsibility. Park visitors are asked to direct any fire concerns or questions to park staff and to report all fires to 911.

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Contact: Joyce Courtney, Communications Manager, 604-257-8699 cell: 604-861-4375

The Vancouver Board of Parks and Recreation maintains 200 parks and 40 major facilities throughout the City of Vancouver. The Park Board's mission is to provide, preserve and advocate for parks and recreation services to benefit people, communities and the environment.