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CASTLEGAR – The Southeast 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 Southeast Fire Centre’s jurisdiction, 31 fires have been responded to, of which 100 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.
The Southeast Fire
Centre is expected to experience a warming and drying trend over the long
weekend, increasing the chance of wildfire danger.
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.
Campers should never leave their campfires
unattended. Always have water and hand tools ready to prevent flames from
escaping. To extinguish a campfire, saturate it with water until the ashes are
completely cold to the touch.
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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contact: |
Fire Information Officer Southeast Fire Centre 250 365-4014 |
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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. |
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