CANADA, May 1 - People are asked to use caution over the next several days as a combination of warm, dry conditions and strong winds in much of southern B.C. are adding to elevated wildfire danger.
The BC Wildfire Service urges people to postpone any open burning until the windy conditions pass and to use extra caution when camping in the backcountry.
“We are expecting active weather in the coming days that could set the stage for dangerous wildfire conditions across the province,” said Ravi Parmar, Minister of Forests. “This is the time of year when we’re at the most risk for human-caused wildfires in B.C., most of which are entirely preventable. As the days get longer and nicer, with more people camping or working outside, we all have a role to play in reducing wildfire risk by remaining vigilant, cautious and informed.”
People planning to have campfires should do so safely, following any local prohibitions. Tips include:
- avoid having a campfire when it’s windy;
- choose a proper fire pit or make a ring of rocks at least three metres from trees, shrubs, structures and debris; and
- do not leave a campfire unattended for any amount of time.
Open-burning prohibitions are expected to be in place in the coming weeks and will be updated as conditions change.
Throughout the province, people are encouraged to stay up to date on current wildfire activity and check for road closures, evacuation alerts and orders, and weather conditions, and follow instructions from local governments or First Nations. People are also asked to do their part by reporting any wildfires even if they may have already been reported to either *5555 on a cellphone or 1 800 663-5555, toll-free.
The BC Wildfire Service mobile app allows people to check the current wildfire situation, road conditions, evacuation information and weather forecasts. Users can also report new wildfires and submit photos, which helps inform BC Wildfire Service operational decision-making.
Learn More:
For BC Wildfire Service information and updates, visit: https://wildfiresituation.nrs.gov.bc.ca/dashboard
For more information about how to FireSmart your home, visit: https://firesmartbc.ca
