Citing very dry conditions, the BC Wildfire Service is urging people across the Kamloops Fire Centre to be careful if they’re doing any open burning this spring.

They say elevated drought conditions from the fall and little to no precipitation in the valley bottom this spring have made forest fuels easily susceptible to ignition.

“Currently, there are no open fire prohibitions in effect in the Kamloops Fire Centre,” the Wildfire Service said. “Those conducting any open fire should use caution and be aware of local conditions that might impact their ability to burn safely and control their open fires.”

Prior to lighting any fire, people are being told to be aware of the following open burning regulations:

• Establish a fuel break around your Category 2 or Category 3 burn and ensure the fire site is away from buildings, trees, and other combustible materials.
• Ensure someone is always monitoring the fire so it doesn’t spread beyond its intended size.
• Ensure that sufficient tools and water on site to control the fire.
• Anyone who lights an open fire must also comply with B.C.’s air quality control legislation and follow the Open Burning Smoke Control Regulations. Check the local venting index by calling 1 888 281-2992 or online here.
• Make sure the fire is completely extinguished before leaving the area.
• Anyone lighting a Category 3 open fire must first obtain a burn registration number by calling 1-888-797-1717.

Anyone found violating open-burning prohibition may be issued a ticket for $1,150. They may also be required to pay an administrative penalty of $10,000. If convicted in court, they could be fined up to $100,000 and/or sentenced to one year in jail.

If the violation causes or contributes to a wildfire, the person responsible may also be ordered to pay all firefighting and associated costs.

And as always, to report a wildfire or unattended campfire, call 1-800-663-5555 toll-free or *5555 on a cell phone.

For further information and resources on fire prevention, go here.