There will be no roasting hot dogs over the coals at Ambleside, or any West Vancouver park, for now.
Recent high temperatures and tinder dry conditions have forced West Vancouver fire officials to ban charcoal and briquette barbecues in all parks due to the high fire rating.
“Banning the use of charcoal and briquette barbecues is a preventative step towards ensuring there are fewer accidental fires,” stated West Vancouver fire Chief Randy Heath in a press release.
Propane barbecues, meanwhile, are permitted in West Vancouver parks, except Lighthouse Park, until further notice. Heath said the public is being asked to help reduce the fire risk by reporting violators of the charcoal and briquette barbecue ban to the fire department, and if a fire is spotted, call 9-1-1 immediately.
Municipal bylaws prohibit open fires throughout the North Shore, including campfires, outdoor fireplaces, fire pits, and clay open-fire garden heaters also known as chimineas.
The District of North Vancouver, meanwhile, is reviewing the fire danger rating early this week to determine if they will follow suit with the charcoal and briquette barbecue ban.
