If you’re taking on home improvements this summer, Coquitlam’s fire chief is urging you to proceed carefully given the fire risk.
Chief Scott Young, who was appointed to the top job this spring, is sharing advice for residents — and neighbours — to stay safe as more renovation projects are done during the warmer months of July and August.
Construction tools can spark fire, which can spread faster in hotter and drier conditions.
But, by using measures like fire resistant-rated construction materials, the risk of blazes getting out of control is limited, he said.
Here are a few best practices to prevent fires:
- Have a preparedness plan
- Make sure you have fire protection protocols in place
- Construction fire safety plans are required
- Use fire resistant-rated roof materials like concrete tile or metal
- Build decks with non-combustible or fire-resistant materials covered with solid surfaces; slotted surfaces allow needles and other flammable materials to accumulate below the deck
- Ensure outdoor structures, such as gazebos, are at least nine metres away from the house or other structures
- Keep flammable debris (building materials, solvents and lumber, etc.) at least 10 metres away from the home
- Don’t toss cigarette butts or burn outdoors
- Make sure you have fire protection protocols in place
- Check the weather
- Avoid working in the afternoon
- Shut down the project site, when necessary
As well, homes that are close to forests — like on Burke Mountain and Westwood Plateau — are especially at risk of a wildfire spreading.
Coquitlam imposes a $500 fine in the summer for smoking on trails and in parks.
