High Risk Activities during EXTREME FIRE DANGER Class

Thursday we will be on Day 17 of the EXTREME FIRE DANGER Class, as determined by the Coastal Fire Centre through daily weather and ground conditions data (build up index, fine fuel moisture content, RH, etc.)

EXTREME DANGER means the forest and bush fuels are extremely dry and the fire risk is very serious.  New fires will start easily, spread rapidly, and challenge fire suppression activities.  On Thetis we are very aware of the limitations we will encounter in getting timely suppression aid from off-island to assist our small department.  That is why all must take the responsibility for not allowing new fires to occur.

Mowing

There have been several questions directed to the TIVFD about why residents can’t mow their lawns during HIGH and EXTREME FIRE DANGER.  The simple answer is that metal blades can inadvertently strike a hidden rock and cause a spark that might ignite drying grass or go to ground in the drying root mat and ignite several days later.  However, if the grass is long and dry and could be a fire danger, the department will allow emergency mowing as long as the lawn is drenched before and after the cut and a fire watch posted afterwards.  The TIVFD must be notified beforehand, and we will assess the emergency.  This is the reason that we urge people to mow in the early mornings before or during HIGH DANGER CLASS.  Grass doesn’t grow in the summer heat, and drenching lawns will take up a lot of well water.

Danger Trees

Although chainsawing is prohibited during EXTREME, if the tree is threatening to fall and damage a structure or is a threat to life and safety, of course the tree must be felled.  The TIVFD will assist with site safety during the operation.  Do not hesitate to contact the fire department if you have a danger tree situation.

Heavy Machinery

Land clearing, road building etc. is prohibited during EXTREME.  However, is Excavating a High-Risk Activity?  The short answer is “no” if these rules are applied:  As long as the excavation is being done on a large dirt or mineral soil area and an adequate water source and fire suppression equipment is available immediately at the site, then it is allowed.  Examples of excavating could be cleared construction sites, septic tank installations, driveway work on a gravel, dirt, or paved driveway etc.  Excavating DOESN’T include land clearing.

The Thetis Island Fire Department is very appreciative of the local contractors and residents who work with us to reduce the risk of fires during the wildfire season.  None of us want a human caused fire start on the island.  (We are firmly against lightning strikes too, but that would be just bad luck rather than a bad decision.). If you have any questions or concerns about High-Risk Activities during HIGH or EXTREME DANGER CLASS periods, please contact the Fire Chief at firechief@thetisislandfire.ca

Fire Chief J. Caldbeck 

Thetis Island Vol. Fire Dept.