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   INFORMATION BULLETIN   

For Immediate Release

2009FOR0101-000949

May 14, 2009

Ministry of Forests and Range

 

PUBLIC ENCOURAGED TO PLAY IT SAFE WITH FIRES

 


KAMLOOPS – The Kamloops Fire Centre is urging British Columbians to be vigilant with campfires and other open burning during the May long weekend. Individuals should ensure they are burning in a safe manner.

 

Since April 1, fire crews have responded to 285 fires across the province, of which more than 98 per cent were human-caused. Within the Kamloops Fire Centre’s jurisdiction, 84 fires have been responded to, of which 79 per cent were human-caused.

 

Although temperatures for most of the province have been cooler than normal this spring, it takes only a few days of warm weather to dry out grasses and forest fuels. Weather conditions in most of the Kamloops area are expected to become sunny, warm and dry for the long weekend, with temperatures in the low twenties.

 

Individuals considering open burning are advised to check with local authorities to see if restrictions are in place. When conducting backyard burning, always ensure enough water, people and tools are available to prevent the fire from escaping.

 

Fire seasons are starting earlier and lasting longer, making it more important than ever for the public to help prevent fires.

 

For the latest information on fire bans, fire danger ratings and weather information, visit the B.C. Wildfire Management website at www.bcwildfire.ca. Please report all grass and forest fires to 1-800-663-5555 or *5555 on the cellular network.

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Media

contact:

Elise Riedlinger

Fire Information Officer

250 554-5530

250 371-4538 (cell)

Jeanne Rucker

Fire Information Officer

250 554-5532

250 318-7456 (cell)

 

For more information on government services or to subscribe to the Province’s news feeds using RSS, visit the Province’s website at www.gov.bc.ca.