A lot of media attention has zeroed in on fire prevention messaging during the extended dry spell.
And it looks like it's working.
It's already cutting down the number of calls for bark mulch fires around town, according to the Chilliwack Fire Department.
"I think people are starting to realize the risk since it's been so tinder dry," said assistant fire chief Michael Bourdon. "It's important since we're having one of the driest summers in years."
Call volume for bark mulch fires has gone down noticeably in the past couple of days, Bourdon said on Thursday.
It helps if the public stays cognizant of their surroundings, and careful to fully extinguish all smoking materials, he said.
"I think people are being more cautious."
One tip for business and home owners is to ensure grasses and brush are mowed down to reduce fuel loads, especially if they're up against building structures. Putting out cigarette butts safely and calling every potential fire in to 911 as soon as possible is also very helpful.
"In this day and age with instant communications, they're letting us know right away by calling 911 if they see smoke," he said. "The sooner the better."
jfeinberg@theprogress.com
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