AS the summer months approach and forecasts predict a higher-than-average risk of extreme heat this year, the City of Surrey says it is taking proactive steps to safeguard residents, visitors and natural parklands through the implementation of its 2025 Dry Season Action Plan.

With a reported 505 brush/grass fire calls in 2024 alone, the Dry Season Action Plan, developed collaboratively by Surrey Fire Services, Parks, Recreation and Culture and Bylaw Services, is a comprehensive, risk-based strategy designed to reduce the likelihood of brush fires and enhance public safety during the dry season.

“Public safety is our top priority as we prepare for what is expected to be a particularly dry and hot summer in Surrey,” said Surrey Mayor Brenda Locke. “The Dry Season Action Plan represents a comprehensive and collaborative effort by our City departments to protect our community, natural areas, and visitors from the risk of wildfires.”

She added: “By proactively implementing these measures, we can reduce the likelihood of fires, respond swiftly to emerging hazards, and help everyone remain safe while enjoying our beautiful environment. It is crucial that residents and visitors also take personal responsibility—staying informed, following safety guidelines, and properly disposing of smoking materials—to help us prevent fires and keep Surrey a safe and vibrant place for all.”

Key elements of the 2025 Dry Season Action Plan include: 

• Enhanced public awareness: Ongoing communications as needed to educate residents on fire safety and prevention, including signage with current fire danger ratings, locations where improperly discarded smoking materials have caused a fire, and awareness on beach fire bans.

• Coordinated interdepartmental response: Seamless collaboration between Fire Services, Parks, and Bylaw teams to monitor conditions and respond swiftly to emerging risks.

• Sustainable practices: Long-term strategies to ensure fire prevention efforts are environmentally and operationally sustainable.

The plan was originally introduced in 2018 in response to increased brush fire calls and is reviewed and updated annually to reflect current conditions and best practices.

“The Dry Season Action Plan is a coordinated approach between City departments to address fire safety within Surrey’s forested and beach areas. Citizens and visitors to Surrey are encouraged to take personal responsibility to prevent unwanted brush and grass fires.” said Fire Chief Larry Thomas. “Proper disposal of smoking materials and following the open burning and beach fire bans will help ensure a fire safe summer for all to enjoy our natural environments.”

Residents are encouraged to stay informed, follow local fire safety guidelines, and report any signs of smoke or fire activity immediately.

Learn about Surrey’s burning regulations and permits on the City website.