British Columbians are being urged to exercise caution this weekend, as a combination of warm, dry conditions and strong winds have elevated the possibility for wildfires.
The BC Wildfire Service (BCWS) says people should think about postponing any planned 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 BC, most of which are entirely preventable.”
He added that as the days get longer and the weather improves, more people will be camping or working outside, and all BC residents have a part to play in reducing wildfire risks.
Though there is no official fire ban implemented in BC as of yet, people should still exercise extreme caution when lighting and tending campfires this weekend, according to the BCWS.
They advise people thinking about lighting campfires to rethink their plans when it’s windy outside; 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.
According to the Province, the first phase of open-burning prohibitions are expected to be put in place in the coming weeks, then updated as conditions change.
Additionally, all British Columbians are being encouraged to start to stay up to date with current wildfire activity—checking for road closures, evacuation alerts and orders as well as weather conditions.
As of this publication, there are currently 23 active wildfires in BC, three of which are deemed to be ‘out of control.’
Anyone who sees a wildfire in BC can report it by dialing *5555 on a cellphone or calling 1-800-663-5555, toll-free.
