‘Suspicious fires’ in North Vancouver prompt warning from RCMP

The North Vancouver RCMP is out with a warning after it says two suspicious fires were reported Tuesday.

Mounties say both fires were in the Norgate neighbourhood. The first fire was reported around 2:30 p.m. after a homeowner on Sowden Street smelled smoke and saw his 10-foot hedges go up in flames.

The second fire was reported about a half hour later by a person walking past another set of hedges that were also on fire.

The RCMP says firefighters were able to put the flames out before they reached any homes.

According to investigators, witnesses reported seeing three boys — around the ages of 10 and 12 — “loitering in the area prior to the fires being set.”

“The act of intentionally setting a fire is not only dangerous but can also have criminal consequences,” said Const. Mansoor Sahak.

Officials note, with a dry and hot summer anticipated, it’s critical for people to be “extra vigilant” to prevent wildfires.

“Currently, our North Shore fire danger rating is considered to be ‘Low,’ but under no circumstances should anyone be intentionally lighting a fire to cause damage,” said Conrad Breakey, captain of Public Safety for District of North Vancouver Fire and Rescue Services.

“Fires can start easily, spread rapidly and be hard to control. Open burning is banned all year in the district and it’s paramount that people use extreme caution when engaging in activities, like barbequing, that could potentially risk starting a fire.”