Know Before You Go: Stay Safe This Long Weekend

Maple Ridge, B.C., Aug. 1, 2025 – As we head into the long weekend, the City of Maple Ridge is reminding residents and travellers to enjoy the outdoors safely and be prepared for changing weather and emergency conditions across the region.

Whether you’re exploring local trails, heading to the lake, or travelling out of town, take a moment to Know Before You Go and keep safety top of mind while having fun.

Fire Ban in Effect – No Campfires Permitted

A fire ban is in place across Maple Ridge and the province due to extreme fire danger. This means:

  • No open burning or campfires of any size
  • No backyard burning or fireworks
  • No tiki torches, sky lanterns, or similar devices
  • Any person found contravening the fire ban will be fined up to $1150.  

Be Fire Safe This Summer: 

  • No smoking is permitted in City parks and trails. 
  • Never leave barbecues or gas campfire devices unattended. 
  • Dispose of smoking materials responsibly, never on the ground or in planters. 
  • Avoid using equipment that can generate sparks near dry grass or brush. 
  • Report any signs of fire immediately by calling 9-1-1. To report an unattended fire or wildfire, call 1-800-663-5555 or *5555 on your cell. 

Stay Safe from Smoke 

Wildfire smoke can affect everyone, especially children, older adults, and people with heart or lung conditions. Reduce your exposure:

  • Limit outdoor activities during smoky periods
  • Keep windows and doors closed
  • Use HEPA air purifiers indoors
  • Set your car’s ventilation system to recirculate when driving
  • Spend time in air-conditioned spaces like malls or libraries
  • Monitor air quality: Current Air Quality | Metro Vancouver
  • LumiAir Pilot Project: Until Aug. 11, visit the Maple Ridge Public Library to check out LumiAir Pilot Project—a visual air quality display pilot project run by Metro Vancouver. LumiAir provides real-time data from 30 air quality stations across the region, highlighting health-harming pollutants (PM, NO₂, Ozone) and wildfire smoke impacts.

Be Safe Around Water

Rivers, lakes, and creeks are popular summer destinations, but they come with risks:

  • Always supervise children closely
  • Wear a lifejacket when boating or paddling
  • Stay clear of fast-moving rivers, especially after rain or heat waves
  • Watch for sudden drop-offs, cold water, and slippery rocks
  • Alcohol and water don’t mix—stay sober when swimming or boating

Travel Smart This Weekend

Before heading out, check:

Sign Up for Free Fall Workshops – Be Prepared

The City has another round of free Be Emergency Ready workshops this fall. These sessions are open to all residents and provide information on hazard preparedness, emergency kits, and how to create a family emergency plan. Workshop dates and registration information are available at MapleRidge.ca/EmergencyReadiness.  

Stay Informed

Residents are advised to sign up for Alert Maple Ridge at MapleRidge.ca/Alert to receive emergency and other notifications and follow the city’s social media channels for the latest updates. For additional information, contact Edd Bennett, Corporate Emergency Program Manager at EmergencyProgram@MapleRidge.ca. Report a Concern at Maple Ridge.ca/Report.

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Media contact: 

Pardeep Purewal, Senior Manager Corporate Communications and Public Engagement
T 604 466 4319   C 778 955 4249  E media@mapleridge.ca