Despite the recent precipitation the forest fire risk remains elevated and residents are reminded to remain vigilant.
Coquitlam Fire and Rescue Chief Wade Pierlot said Friday that the smatterings of rain in the area last week have done little to improve dry conditions in local forests.
"[The rain] has provided some psychological relief" but there hasn't been enough to thoroughly seep into the soil, he said. Any rain that has fallen has merely been soaked up by the ground.
Pierlot said his crews have been responding to a number of boulevard fires, common at this time of year, which are generally caused by cigarette butts tossed out by motorists.
The Coastal Fire Centre (CFC) says this area's risk rating is moderate but there are still restrictions on campfires and open fires.
The CFC, a part of the Wildfire Management Branch of the provincial government, said careless campfire use is one of the leading causes of forest fires, and humans account for about half the wildfires in the province.
WHAT TO DO
Do not discard smoking materials from vehicles. Use interior ashtrays
Lawn and farm equipment should have properly working spark arresters to prevent sparks from exiting through the exhaust pipes.
ATVs produce an enormous amount of heat and can ignite brush from their exhaust systems.
Report fire sightings or the smell of smoke to 1-800-663-5555 or *5555 on your cellphone.
