A few dry days will certainly ramp up the fire rating in Lower Mainland parks making smoking even more risky than usual.
Metro Vancouver is seeking to reduce the fire risk from smoking - and other problems related to second hand smoke - by outlawing puffing in most parts of regional parks and beaches.
In a few weeks directors will be asked to vote on the recommendation which would restrict smoking to certain areas, likely those most populated and close to receptacles where cigarette butts can be contained.
This sounds like a great idea, but as with any rules, it will require enforcing and Metro directors who will be voting on the issue will have to consider who should police the scofflaws.
In Vancouver, where a full-ban has been in city parks for a year, park rangers have the power to issue tickets with hefty fines of $250 for first-time offenders.
Metro's ban won't likely have as much muscle and will likely be confusing as smokers try to figure out where they are allowed and not allowed to smoke.
Q. Do you think a full smoking ban should be implemented for Metro Vancouver parks?
