Some information about the Smoke Venting Index:

What is the Venting Index and why does it matter?
The Venting Index is a numerical value related to the potential of the atmosphere to disperse smoke and other pollutants. It is based on both the current wind speed in the mixed layer and the mixing height. The mixed layer is the surface layer of air that is turbulent and well mixed. The mixing height is the thickness (sometimes zero) of this mixed layer. Adequate venting is required to disperse the smoke generated by open burning. If there is not adequate venting, the smoke settles over the area it originates from.

Basically this means that if the smoke venting index is "Good" for the day, the smoke from your fire will go up into the atmosphere and not into your neighbor's property. If it's not "Good" then your fire will likely smoke out the neighborhood and the fire department will be called to deal with the nuisance fire.

In accordance with the Government of British Columbia, any outdoor burning (other than small campfires 1/2 meter in size), is permitted only on "Good" venting days. This is also stated on all burn permits issued by Mayne Island Fire.

Much more information can be found on our website here: https://mayneislandfire.com/ (particularly in the "Burning" section of the site).

Thanks, and if you are going to burn outdoors, please do so safely.

-D.C. Walker ... See more