Showing posts with label News. Show all posts
Showing posts with label News. Show all posts
Friday, 15 June 2018
Fire Smart With Mike
Want to learn a few things about being Fire Smart and protecting your home? Watch this video of Quadra’s own Mike Gall as he does a Fire Smart walk around with the Campbell River Mirror: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rh3-7xoP-gw
Friday, 18 May 2018
May 18 - Burn Ban
Coastal Fire will be initiating a category two burn ban at noon on May 18. This means that Category two fires will also be banned in the Quadra Island Southern Protection District, as we follow the same bans set by Coastal Fire.
For more information on what a category two fire is, please check out this poster. You may also checkout out our Current Conditions page at www.quadrafire.org for more details regarding Bans in the southern district.
For more information on what a category two fire is, please check out this poster. You may also checkout out our Current Conditions page at www.quadrafire.org for more details regarding Bans in the southern district.
Tuesday, 19 September 2017
Campfire Ban Lifted
As of today, the campfire ban has been lifted within the QIFD district. The burn ban (category 2) is still in effect however. Please feel free to visit https://www.quadrafire.org/current-conditions.php#cat2 to see what that includes. Thank you
Saturday, 2 September 2017
Chainsaw Ban
Due to the extreme weather and heat wave we are having we are implementing a chainsaw ban on the island within the QIFD fire district. Please refrain from using your chainsaw until further notice. If you have any questions feel free to submit them to https://www.quadrafire.org/contact.php.
Thank you
Thank you
Tuesday, 1 August 2017
Smoke expected to hit the coast
We may experience some smoke in the next few days. Due to weather conditions the smoke from the wildfires in the interior is expected to reach the coast this week.
For the full story please check out https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2017FLNR0200-001367.
Thank you
For the full story please check out https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2017FLNR0200-001367.
Thank you
Thursday, 6 July 2017
2017 Campfire Ban
The campfire ban is now in effect. Please visit our current conditions page at www.quadrafire.org/current-conditions.php for more information on what this ban includes.
Thursday, 23 March 2017
QIFD Test Repeater Site Operational
QIFD has been using its new temporary repeater system for over 2 months now and what a difference it has made.
For many years, QIFD struggled with poor radio coverage while performing emergency services on Quadra. Many a time, when in the shadow of certain topographic obstruction, the portable radio and pager performance was challenged making coordinating field activities difficult. Back in 2013, our concerns were raised with North Island 911 Corp who own and maintain our repeater system. North Island Communications was then contracted to create a suitable communications solution. Through radio frequency predictive propagation software, a potential site was proposed at the crest of Heriot Ridge, very close to the Heriot Ridge trail. Although from an RF engineering perspective, this location was perfect, it represented a significant infringement on the aesthetic values of the island. Through a public meeting process, several concerns were raised and the proposed site was deemed unsuitable.
With help from members of the Quadra Outdoor Club and Quadra Trails Committee as well as other concerned citizens, a new alternate site was scouted and proposed. Action items included conducting a biological survey to identify endangered plant species, design the system for the new location topography, insure RF propagation was suitable, conduct a new site Survey and re-apply to Land and Forests for location approval. The biologist survey was conducted and identified one threatened plant species. The plant location was marked and protective measures were taken to prevent harm. The new radio site location was well away from Heriot Ridge hiking trail and below any viewpoint sightlines. In fact, unless you knew where to look, it would be virtually invisible. On paper, the RF propagation looked satisfactory and all involved parties agreed to proceed with next steps.
Under the application process, a temporary test and evaluation system is eligible for installation to prove out strengths and weaknesses of the proposed system. It was decided to install a self-contained test system running on solar panels to charge batteries. The radio equipment operates in the VHF frequency band at a relatively low power. The equipment yurt would be green and the antennae tower maintains a very low profile. There would be no roads, trails or power lines as everything was designed to be completely self-contained and minimize impact. The system was pre-built in Campbell River and then helicopter slung into position.
Success so far! The radio tests we have conducted have been phenomenal representing a quantum leap in improving our communications system performance. Virtually all regions within the QIFD fire protection district now have both portable radio and pager coverage. North Island 911.com has provided an excellent communications system solution helping QIFD insure the safety of our volunteer members during emergency calls. RCMP and BC Ambulance will also benefit from this location when they add their communications equipment post final approvals. We are now in the reapplication phase and as part of due process, a public input meeting is required to address any concerns Quadra residents may have and this will be well advertised in advance.
Prior to the official general public meeting, we are conducting an informal information session to answer any questions and pre-addresses any issues. This will be held at the QCC - Room 3, 7:00 PM, Wednesday, April 5th. Please enter via the South doors.
If you have any immediate questions or concerns regarding the final development of this repeater site, please contact Mike Gall at 285-2491 or by email mickeeg@gmail.com.
QIFD
For many years, QIFD struggled with poor radio coverage while performing emergency services on Quadra. Many a time, when in the shadow of certain topographic obstruction, the portable radio and pager performance was challenged making coordinating field activities difficult. Back in 2013, our concerns were raised with North Island 911 Corp who own and maintain our repeater system. North Island Communications was then contracted to create a suitable communications solution. Through radio frequency predictive propagation software, a potential site was proposed at the crest of Heriot Ridge, very close to the Heriot Ridge trail. Although from an RF engineering perspective, this location was perfect, it represented a significant infringement on the aesthetic values of the island. Through a public meeting process, several concerns were raised and the proposed site was deemed unsuitable.
With help from members of the Quadra Outdoor Club and Quadra Trails Committee as well as other concerned citizens, a new alternate site was scouted and proposed. Action items included conducting a biological survey to identify endangered plant species, design the system for the new location topography, insure RF propagation was suitable, conduct a new site Survey and re-apply to Land and Forests for location approval. The biologist survey was conducted and identified one threatened plant species. The plant location was marked and protective measures were taken to prevent harm. The new radio site location was well away from Heriot Ridge hiking trail and below any viewpoint sightlines. In fact, unless you knew where to look, it would be virtually invisible. On paper, the RF propagation looked satisfactory and all involved parties agreed to proceed with next steps.
Under the application process, a temporary test and evaluation system is eligible for installation to prove out strengths and weaknesses of the proposed system. It was decided to install a self-contained test system running on solar panels to charge batteries. The radio equipment operates in the VHF frequency band at a relatively low power. The equipment yurt would be green and the antennae tower maintains a very low profile. There would be no roads, trails or power lines as everything was designed to be completely self-contained and minimize impact. The system was pre-built in Campbell River and then helicopter slung into position.
Success so far! The radio tests we have conducted have been phenomenal representing a quantum leap in improving our communications system performance. Virtually all regions within the QIFD fire protection district now have both portable radio and pager coverage. North Island 911.com has provided an excellent communications system solution helping QIFD insure the safety of our volunteer members during emergency calls. RCMP and BC Ambulance will also benefit from this location when they add their communications equipment post final approvals. We are now in the reapplication phase and as part of due process, a public input meeting is required to address any concerns Quadra residents may have and this will be well advertised in advance.
Prior to the official general public meeting, we are conducting an informal information session to answer any questions and pre-addresses any issues. This will be held at the QCC - Room 3, 7:00 PM, Wednesday, April 5th. Please enter via the South doors.
If you have any immediate questions or concerns regarding the final development of this repeater site, please contact Mike Gall at 285-2491 or by email mickeeg@gmail.com.
QIFD
Saturday, 14 May 2016
Burning Information
The backyard burning ban is now in effect until further notice.
There is a year round beach fire ban on Quadra Island.
For the time being campfires are still allowed and just a reminder that a campfire has dimensions no larger than 19 inches by 19 inches.
There is a year round beach fire ban on Quadra Island.
For the time being campfires are still allowed and just a reminder that a campfire has dimensions no larger than 19 inches by 19 inches.
Tuesday, 3 May 2016
Join us this coming Saturday, May 7th for Emergency Preparedness Day at the No. 1 Fire Hall from 10 am to 1 pm. We will have a number of different displays put on by RCMP, BC Ambulance, and BC Hydro just to name a few. Our members will be demonstrating the proper use of fire extinguishers and we will have a demonstration on how to protect your home from wildland fire. There will be lots of information available to help prepare yourself in case of emergency so come on out and get informed!
Friday, 26 February 2016
Chimney Fires
Even though Spring is right around the corner we are still experiencing chilly winter weather which means your wood stoves are keeping your home's nice and warm until warmer weather arrives. Your Quadra Island Fire Department has responded to a number of chimney fires so far in the New Year so we wanted to provide some information to hopefully answer any questions people may have.
What Causes Chimney Fires?
Chimney Fires are most commonly a result of the ignition and burning of creosote build-up in your chimney or stove pipes. When your wood stove burns, the by-products of combustion are exhausted out of your chimney and, while traveling up into the cooler chimney space, form creosote through condensation. Creosote, which is highly flammable, can take many forms (crusty and flaky, tar-like, hardened and often a combination of each) and in sufficient enough quantities can ignite and cause a chimney fire.
Restricted air supply, burning unseasoned wood and cooler than normal flue temperatures are contributing factors that lead to increased creosote build up.
Signs and Symptoms of a Chimney Fire.
Chimney fires can range from slow burning and not visible to explosive burning. Active chimney fires can display the following:
- Loud popping or cracking sounds, or rumbling
- Dense smoke in home
- Intense hot smell
- Reddening of stove pipes
- Visible flames
What to do if you have a chimney fire?
If you find a chimney fire in your home there are a few steps you can take to increase your family's safety and to minimize the potential damage caused.
Call 911 immediately and get anyone inside to exit to a safe location. Calling 911 first gets our members to your home quicker, which allows us to have a greater effect on a potential emergency situation.
If conditions are safe to enter your home, and you are able to access your wood stove, throwing a cup of water on the fire can have a very positive effect on extinguishment. Adding a small amount of water to a hot wood stove and shutting the door can create enough steam to put the fire out. Closing the access door and air inlets is helpful to restrict the air the fire wants.
Once the fire is out you can re-enter your home. It is advised after any chimney fire to have your chimney cleaned and inspected by a professional.
Prevention
As the saying goes ‘An ounce of prevention, is worth a pound of cure’, and this is very true in the case of chimney fires. Here are a few recommended prevention methods:
- Regular cleaning and inspection of wood stove and chimney components
- Burn seasoned, dry wood
- Build and burn smaller, hotter fires
- Avoid burning cardboard boxes, wrapping paper or trash as these can spark a chimney fire
Although not a prevention, working smoke detectors are essential to early detection.
If anyone has comments or questions, please feel free to leave them on our Blog or the Quadra Island Fire Department Facebook page.
Friday, 22 January 2016
2016 Recruitment
Quadra Island Fire Department is seeking dedicated and motivated individuals who live and work within our community to strengthen our team of Volunteer Firefighters.
Volunteering with the Quadra Island Fire Department is an incredible way to give back to your community. It calls on it’s members to perform strenuous work often in non-ideal conditions but we guarantee that your time spent volunteering with us will be one of the most rewarding experiences you have ever had.
If you are interested in joining our team please drop by on a Tuesday practice night between 7pm and 9pm and talk to Chief Sharon Clandening or Deputy Chief Graham Swanson about how you can get started.
Our next group of recruits will be starting training in February.
Friday, 28 August 2015
Fire Ban Lifted
As of Sunday, August 30th at 10:00 am, the campfire ban on Quadra will be lifted. Just a reminder that a campfire measures 19 inches x 19 inches. …
Monday, 6 July 2015
Total Fire Ban
And just a reminder that all open fires are prohibited.
We would also like to remind all those that smoke to butt out responsibly.
Smoke on the island
We are experiencing heavy smoke in and around Quadra due to the many
fires burning in the Coastal Region. Due to changing wind direction and
speed it is difficult to determine how long the smoke will be in our
area.
We would like to remind residents that all open burning is prohibited, this includes outdoor propane fire pits and torches.
We are encouraging residents to be diligent about reporting what they believe could be a fire. As the layer of smoke is thick at times, when calling 911 it is helpful to describe what you see (is it a haze of smoke or a column of smoke? Is it specific to an area or wide spread?)
Please continue to be cautious and watchful.
We would like to remind residents that all open burning is prohibited, this includes outdoor propane fire pits and torches.
We are encouraging residents to be diligent about reporting what they believe could be a fire. As the layer of smoke is thick at times, when calling 911 it is helpful to describe what you see (is it a haze of smoke or a column of smoke? Is it specific to an area or wide spread?)
Please continue to be cautious and watchful.
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