With rain and cooler temperatures expected over the Victoria Day long weekend, no open fire prohibitions are in effect in the Coastal Fire Centre.
Despite a wildfire at Woods Creek, just west of Stories Beach south of Campbell River, last weekend, the fire danger rating in the coastal region remains low to moderate.
The rain and cooler weather is expected over the May long weekend, which should help to reduce wildfire risks, said Gordon Robinson, information officer with the Coastal Fire Centre.
"Regardless of the fact that open burning is not prohibited, we ask residents to be responsible with their use of open fire and partner with us to reduce human-caused wildfires," Robinson said. "As we shift into the summer season, it is especially important for residents to continue using caution when engaging in any activity that could potentially cause a wildfire."
Residents are advised to check the BC Wildfire Service website and app for the latest on any possible burning prohibitions as we move into the warmer months.
READ MORE: Woods Creek fire outside of Campbell River under control
So far, this season, which began April 1, there have been 10 fires on Vancouver Island, totalling 5.23 hectares.
Statistically, this number is in line with the 10-year average for this date, Robinson said. However, it is still too early in the season to determine whether this year will be statistically busier than last year. The severity of the wildfire season on the coast will depend in part on how much spring rainfall we receive, particularly during the key month of June, he said.
