According to a report recently published by the Centre d’expertise en analyse environnementale du Québec (Quebec Centre of expertise in environmental analysis), campfires lead to high concentrations of fine particles at certain times of the year. More and more research is being carried out into the health risks of smoke. Take a moment to learn how to safely (and legally!) enjoy campfires this summer.
In 2022, a family of campers filed a complaint with the Société des établissements de plein air du Québec (Sépaq or Quebec outdoor establishments network). The family raised concerns about the risks smoke posed to their children with asthma. This prompted Sépaq to investigate the air quality at some of its campsites.
After publishing their investigation report, they promised to better inform campers about the presence of fine particles caused by campfires and their health risks. However, their CEO confirmed earlier this year that a total ban on campfires was out of the question.
So, what are the current rules on campfires?
In Quebec’s national parks
A simple rule applies in Quebec’s national parks: campfires are only allowed in places specifically marked for that purpose.
In Canada’s national parks, you can make a fire in a fireplace, a stove or a barbecue.
In or near a forest
Before making a campfire in or near a forest, make sure you follow these rules:
- Clear all dead wood, branches, scrub, dead leaves and humus from an area large enough to prevent the fire from spreading.
- Have equipment ready to prevent the fire from spreading and to extinguish it.
- Remain in the area until the fire is completely extinguished.
The fine for not obeying these rules is $1,000 to $5,000.
Even where not required by law, the Société de protection des forêts contre le feu (SOPFEU or forest fire protection association) recommends following these rules to ensure that your campfires are safe.
No campfires when the risk is high
During times when the risk of forest fires is high, open-air fires can be completely banned in certain areas.
Someone who builds a campfire in these areas can receive a fine between $500 and $50,000 and may even face criminal charges or a civil lawsuit in some cases.
|
A map showing risk zones is available on the website of the SOPFEU, an organization for protection against forest fires. |