Another reminder from the BC Wildfire Service urging British Columbians to be safe if they’re out in the woods over the BC Day long weekend,
Its as the return of warm weather means an increasing risk of wildfires in Kamloops and across the province, despite a quieter than normal start to wildfire season.
“August is typically the most active month of the B.C. wildfire season. So it’s important for everyone to remain vigilant, check whether there are any burning prohibitions in effect where you are, and ensure that you always use fire responsibly,” said Forests Minister Doug Donaldson.
Between April 1 and July 29, there were 243 wildfires in B.C. which burned about 708 hectares – and about 85 per cent of the fires are believed to be human caused.
“We know people want to get out into the great outdoors, but it’s important that everyone stay vigilant about fire safety,” Donaldson added. “Fighting wildfires can be challenging at the best of times, but managing them in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic requires BC Wildfire Service staff to operate with even greater care.”
“I urge everyone to support our crews by using fire responsibly and making sure that their activities don’t spark a wildfire this holiday weekend.”
You’re still allowed campfires everywhere across the province, but people are urged to be check for any local restrictions and to be careful around all open fires. People are also urged to be careful on all-terrain vehicles and to dispose off cigarette butts properly.
As of Wednesday afternoon, the fire danger rating was ‘high’ for most of southern B.C., and ‘extreme’ in parts of the Kamloops Fire Centre and the Southeast Fire Centre.
“Human-caused fires are completely preventable, and divert crucial firefighting resources from naturally-occuring wildfires,” he added. “We can’t afford to take any risks, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, and I urge everyone to support our firefighting crews by making sure your activities don’t spark a wildfire.”
The fines for violating the fire ban order ranges from a ticket for $1,150 to paying an administrative penalty of up to $10,000 or, if convicted in court, a fine of up to $100,000 and/or one year in jail.
The Wildfire Service also says a person responsible for a fire may be required to pay all firefighting and other costs if their actions either cause or lead to a wildfire.
And as always to report a wildfire, unattended campfire or open burning violation, you’re asked to call 1-800-663-5555 or *5555 on a cellphone.
