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People are being urged once again to safely dispose of cigarette butts after a BC RCMP officer came across a bushfire during patrol recently.
On July 7, 2024, a Richmond RCMP officer came across a brush fire near the parking lot of a shopping centre at 6500 block of No. 3 road.
The officer was able to quickly extinguish the fire, which is suspected to have been caused by a cigarette butt.
“This incident highlights the importance of properly handling ignited articles such as cigarette butts,” said Inspector Mike Roberts, Operations Officer, Richmond RCMP.
“With the current dry weather, even a small spark can lead to a potentially dangerous situation. We urge all residents to be extra cautious and responsible.”
Well-above seasonal temperatures paired with compounded years of drought have elevated the wildfire risk across BC.
As a result, effective on July 12 at 12pm, campfires will not be permitted anywhere in British Columbia.
In light of the dry weather conditions, the public is urged to be vigilant and take extra precautions to prevent fires.
That, in part, means properly extinguishing cigarette butts and disposing of them safely.