Category 2 fires will once again be allowed across the Cariboo Fire Centre, effective noon this Friday, due to a decreased wildfire risk in the region.

People are asked to check with their local authorities as the rules will apply to all BC Parks, Crown lands and private lands, unless specified otherwise.

When the restrictions are eased, people will be able to – among other things – use fireworks, burn barrels, and sky lanterns. They will also be allowed one to two concurrently burning piles no larger than two metres high by three metres wide.

Larger Category 3 open fires will remain prohibited throughout the Cariboo until Sept. 27, unless announced otherwise.

As always, people found in violation of the rules may be issued a ticket for $1,150. They may also be required to pay an administrative penalty of up to $10,000 or, if convicted in court, fined up to $100,000 and/or sentenced to one year in jail.

People may also be ordered to pay all firefighting and associated costs, as well as the value of resources damaged or destroyed by the wildfire, if they causes or contributes to a wildfire.