As the BC Day long weekend fast approaches, the BC government is urging vigilance in regards to the heightened risk of wildfire.
For several regions of Vancouver Island, there is a heat warning ahead of the weekend and in Victoria, Environment Canada is projecting 26°C highs all weekend.
Currently in BC, there are 340 wildfires across the province. On Vancouver Island specifically, there is only one, the Old Man Lake wildfire in Sooke Potholes Regional Park, which was updated to a ‘being held’ status earlier this week.
The Old Man Lake wildfire is believed to have been caused by humans.
Elsewhere in the province, some regions, communities and First Nations are dealing with evacuation orders and alerts, as well as road closures because of wildfires, many of which were human-caused.
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Given the current conditions, residents and travellers are being asked to use caution and take steps to reduce the risk of wildfire by following fire bans and restrictions and having an emergency plan that is shared with friends and family, should the worst happen.
Because of the conditions present, all open burning, including campfires, continues to be prohibited in southern and coastal BC.
The Province is encouraging everyone to do their part in preventing human-caused fires.
Additionally, residents of British Columbia are being asked to continue to report wildfires if they are aware of one.
According to the Province, around 40% of new fires are reported by the public.
People are also encouraged to report dangerous activity that is out of line with fire bans that could lead to a wildfire being caused.
To report a wildfire, unattended campfire, an open burning violation or some other dangerous activity, people can call 1 800 663-5555 (toll-free) or dial *5555 on a cellphone. Those who have the BC Wildfire Service app can also report wildfires via their app.
