Campfire ban lifted despite multiple forest fires

May 14, 2026 | 9:28 AM

While BC Wildfire crews contained the Cold Creek wildfire near the Lookout Wednesday afternoon, Port Alberni firefighters were called to a forest fire on Ship Creek Road.

This follows fires being set along the highway on the hump, and in the woods behind Pacific Rim Mall.

Port Alberni Fire Chief Mike Owens says the fires are suspicious.

“Certainly there were no lightening strikes in the area and so we do know that it is human caused for sure,” he said.

Owens says the fire in the wooded gully along Ship Creek Road could have grown quickly if not for the early reporting and quick intervention of fire crews.

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Meanwhile, the BC Wildfire Service is lifting the coastal campfire ban for the long weekend, but continued drought conditions have many people worried.

Regional District Board Chair and Huu-ay-aht Chief Councillor John Jack is skeptical of the decision.

“While the campfire ban may be rescinded, and it makes it legal to do so, but it may not make it wise to do so, and I think we need to remind people of that fact,” he said. “So even though it may not be against the law to have a fire, it may be against common sense to do so.”

According to BC Wildfire, the current campfire ban announced last week will be rescinded as of Friday at noon.

Photo: Port Alberni firefighters douse small forest fire off Ship Creek Road.

by David Wiwchar

Campfire ban lifted despite multiple forest fires

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