With the hot, dry weather continuing this week, Delta's fire danger rating is on the rise.
On Tuesday, the Delta Fire Department increased the fire danger rating from moderate to high, while maintaining the open burning ban.
The ban is in effect for all areas of the municipality and prohibits campfires and open cooking using briquettes and propane barbecues in all Delta parks until further notice.
An outdoor burning ban was implemented last month.
As of June 24, all burning permits in Delta were cancelled and all types of outdoor fires were banned.
The fire pits at Deas Island and Boundary Bay regional parks, which are under Metro Vancouver's jurisdiction, are excluded from this ban.
Under the ban, smoking is also prohibited in Delta parks.
Delta staff will continue to patrol parks and beaches to ensure there are no unauthorized activities taking place.
The fire department is urging the public to exercise caution and remain on designated park trails to reduce the risk of accidental fires. Residents are asked to report any fires directly through 911.
Any unauthorized activity that poses a fire risk can be reported through the Delta Police Department's
24-hour non-emergency line at 604-946-4411.
By following a few simple rules, residents can enjoy the hot weather and help prevent fires: Despose of smoking materials properly, making sure they are completely extinguished.
Don't leave barbecues unattended and ensure they are turned off properly after you have finished using them.
Explain the dangers of playing with and lighting fires to children.
 Properly dispose of bottles and broken glass you find outdoors to avoid them magnifying the sun's rays and starting a fire.
For more information visit www.bcwildfire.ca.
