Campfires, backyard fires and beach fires are not permitted beginning at noon today in the Coastal Fire Centre, which includes all of Vancouver \island and the south coast of the mainland.

Local governments - Campbell River and the Comox Valley Regional District among them - are instituting their own bans as well, to coincide with the provincial rules.

The ban applies to all recreational fires, including campfires, backyard fires and beach fires anywhere within the municipal boundaries.

Open burning and using items such as fireworks, sky lanterns, torches, and burning barrels are prohibited.

The fire ban follows a long stretch of dry weather throughout spring, a rapidly increasing fire danger rating, and an active early fire season.

Campbell River Fire Chief Dan Verdun says while his team appreciates people’s love of recreational fires, the risk is just too great at this time.

The use of CSA-rated or ULC-rated campfire apparatus and cooking stoves that use liquid or gaseous fuel is allowed at this time, however, in extreme fire conditions, they may also be prohibited.

For more information, visit BC Wildfire Service.