Calgary fire pit program sparks idea for Vernon

A Vernon city council member has given a notice of motion to consider allowing fire pits in parks this winter.

“With COVID-19 this might be a way to allow people some sort of outdoor activity,” Coun Scott Anderson said. “The City of Calgary is doing this and I think its great.”

Calgary is allowing residents to use a fire pit in 20 parks from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., 7 days a week, and is even supplying enough free firewood for a two hour period. Calgarians can also book a fire pit.

“COVID has been tough on all of us. We’re warming up select parks with temporary free-to-use fire pits this winter so you can gather with your family or cohorts safely outside,” the City of Calgary posted on its website.

Park users are also permitted to bring their own portable propane fire pits to city parks any day of the week from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. The fire pits must be used only in manicured areas with short grass or gravel and must be kept at least 10 metres away from playgrounds, benches and other structures.

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Personal wood burning fire pits are not allowed. Calgary is currently allowing a maximum of ten people to gather, although that may change as COVID restrictions are altered.

Kelowna has a propane fire pit next to the Stuart Park outdoor skating rink, but may not be fired up this year due to COVID-19.

Anderson’s notice of motion will be discussed by council at its next meeting in December.