New Westminster Fire and Rescue Services issues fire safety advisory in response to dry and high heat conditions

New Westminster – Due to recent dry and high heat weather conditions, New Westminster Fire and Rescue Services is placing a fire safety advisory in effect for New Westminster. This fire safety advisory is to remind citizens to be cautious when using outdoor open flames and disposing of charcoal briquettes and cigarettes.

“The weather forecast is showing continued dry and hot weather with little precipitation predicted for the region, so there is a higher risk of fire,” said Tim Armstrong, Fire Chief for New Westminster. “Extremely dry conditions increase the risk for fires to ignite, while windy weather increases the chance and speed for any fire to spread. We’d like to remind residents to be vigilant when barbequing and to call 9-1-1 if they see a fire or notice smoke.”

New Westminster residents are also asked to be cautious in the city’s large natural growth parks and green spaces where there are dry grasses and shrubs and to remember to only dispose of charcoal briquettes and cigarettes in proper receptacles.

As weather conditions and the fire risk changes, the New Westminster Fire and Rescue Services will continue to update the status of the fire safety advisory.

For further information, residents are asked to visit the City of New Westminster public website and watch for information on the many electronic sign boards throughout the city.  In addition, anyone can contact the New Westminster Fire and Rescue Services at 604-519-1000 for further information. 

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Contact:

Rob Dick, Assistant Deputy Chief

New Westminster Fire and Rescue Services

or 604-519-1013