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Open burning prohibited in qathet Regional District

Small campfires still permitted
qathet burning restrictions
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BC’s ministry of environment and climate change strategy has banned open burning in certain areas within qathet Regional District until April 15 due to respiratory concerns from COVID-19. Currently, campfires smaller than 0.5 metres wide by 0.5 meters high are allowed. 

According to a media release from the regional district, this ban is in effect for Saltery Bay to Lund and includes Harwood Island and northern Texada Island from Gillies Bay to Van Anda.

Backyard burns of any kind pose a serious health risk to the community, especially those with respiratory issues and people who are isolating at home, and smoke pollution from open burning can seriously impact health, as well as the health and well-being of neighbours and family members, according to the release.

The release stated that if people see any infractions to the open-burning ban, to call the report all poachers and polluters hotline at 1.877.952.7277 (or via cellular at 7277 on the Telus network).

While the focus should remain on physical distancing and handwashing, keeping air as clean as possible will also help to protect all residents, the release stated.