After 407 recent brush and grass fires, Surrey mayor wants stiffer fines [Video]

Surrey Mayor Brenda Locke has proposed increased fines for fire safety violations – following hundreds of recent brush and grass fires, the majority of which were caused by people.

Locke presented a motion at city council Monday directing staff to review the current penalties and consider increasing – or even doubling – the fines when open fire bans are in effect.

“By taking this step, we are sending a clear message that the safety of our community is our top priority,” Locke said in a statement Tuesday. “It’s essential that everyone understands the serious consequences of violating these regulations, as they directly impact our ability to keep our city safe.”

Firefighters have responded to more than 400 brush and grass fires since May 1, according to the city. 

Locke spoke to media Tuesday, and said “most of the fires, almost all of them, are human-related.”

“We need the public to …