Campfires Permitted As Of May 15th At 12pm, But Use Caution

Although Category 1 campfires will once again be permitted beginning Friday, May 15 at noon, residents are strongly encouraged to use caution when having a campfire. Fires should only be lit in a properly contained fire pit and must be completely extinguished when no longer in use — dead out and cold to the touch.

Effective Friday, May 15, 2026, at 12 p.m. (noon), the BC Wildfire Service will rescind the Category 1 campfire prohibition across the Coastal Fire Centre. However, Category 2 and Category 3 open burning prohibitions will remain in effect.

The initial campfire ban was introduced due to several elevated wildfire risk factors, including prolonged hot and dry weather, increasing fire danger ratings, a rise in human-caused wildfires, and early season operational pressures.

Recent weather changes have improved conditions across the region, with cooler temperatures, higher humidity levels, and reduced wildfire danger allowing Category 1 campfires to resume.

Anyone choosing to light a campfire must follow all safety requirements under Section 20 of the Wildfire Regulation, including:

  • Avoid burning during windy conditions

  • Maintain a fuel break around the fire

  • Never leave a fire unattended

  • Fully extinguish the fire before leaving

  • Immediately control or report any fire that spreads beyond the fire break

Despite the easing of campfire restrictions, Category 2 and Category 3 open fires remain prohibited throughout the Coastal Fire Centre, along with:

  • Fireworks

  • Binary exploding targets

  • Burn barrels and burn cages

  • Controlled air incinerators

  • Air curtain burners

  • Carbonizers

The prohibition applies to all areas outside municipal boundaries, as well as certain lands within municipalities including parks, recreation sites, ecological reserves, wildlife management areas, and private managed forest lands.

Municipalities may impose additional local restrictions, so residents are advised to check with their local government before burning.

For more information on current fire prohibitions and restrictions, visit:
BC Wildfire Service – Safer Burning Information

To report a wildfire, unattended campfire, or illegal open burning, call:

  • 1-800-663-5555 (toll-free)

  • *5555 from a cell phone

  • or report through the BC Wildfire Service mobile app.

Sayward Volunteer Fire Department Invites Community To Mother’s Day Tea – May 10th 12pm-2pm

The Mother’s Day celebration in Sayward is getting a heartfelt local twist this year, as the Sayward Volunteer Fire Department invites the community to a charming afternoon tea event.

Set for May 10th from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. at Hall #2, located at 1306 Sayward Road, the Mother’s Day Tea offers a warm and welcoming way to celebrate the important women in our lives—while also connecting with the people who help keep the community safe.

The event promises more than just tea. Guests will have the opportunity to meet local firefighters and first responders in a relaxed, family-friendly setting. It’s a rare chance to put faces to the names behind emergency response and learn more about the dedicated volunteers who serve Sayward year-round.

Of course, no tea would be complete without treats. Attendees can look forward to a delicious spread of baked goods and classic tea-time favourites. From sweet pastries to comforting refreshments, there’s something for everyone to enjoy while soaking in the cheerful, spring-inspired atmosphere.

Adding to the fun, door prizes will be up for grabs, giving guests even more reason to stop by and take part in the celebration.

Events like this highlight the strong sense of community in Sayward. The Sayward Volunteer Fire Department plays a vital role beyond emergency response—bringing people together, building relationships, and creating memorable local experiences.

Whether you’re celebrating with your mom, grandmother, family, or friends, the Mother’s Day Tea is shaping up to be a meaningful and enjoyable way to spend the afternoon.

Mark your calendar for May 10th, and don’t miss this opportunity to celebrate Mother’s Day with good company, great food, and the dedicated volunteers who help keep Sayward safe.

A Beloved Holiday Tradition Returns – Sayward’s Annual Santa Run

The Sayward Volunteer Fire and Rescue Department is proud to announce the return of its Annual Santa Run, a cherished Christmas Eve tradition that has brought joy to local families for more than 50 years.

On December 24, 2025, starting at 5:30 p.m., Santa himself will be riding through the community in a fire truck, spreading holiday cheer and stopping by homes to surprise children with a bag of goodies. The event is open to all children 12 years of age and under, making it a magical experience for the youngest members of our community.

Parents who wish to take part can sign up in advance by leaving their name and phone number with the fire hall. Registration can be completed by calling 250-282-5505 or emailing svfd@saywardvalley.ca. If Santa knows ahead of time, he may even be able to drop off a special present during his visit. Please note that names will be accepted until December 22, 2025.

This long-standing tradition is made possible by the dedication of the Sayward Volunteer Fire and Rescue Department, whose members continue to give back to the community year after year. Their commitment helps ensure that Christmas Eve remains a time of excitement, generosity, and wonder for local children.

So be good, keep an eye out for flashing lights, and get ready — Santa is coming to Sayward this Christmas Eve!