Victoria – Residents, travellers and campers are urged to use caution and remain vigilant to prevent fires while enjoying the outdoors over the Canada Day long weekend.
Since April 1, 2023, more than 566 wildfires have burned more than 960,041 hectares. Most of these hectares have burned within the Prince George Fire Centre. Of these fires, 52% were human-caused and preventable.
Anyone found in contravention of an open-burning prohibition may be issued a violation ticket for $1,150, required to pay an administrative penalty of as much as $10,000 or, if convicted in court, fined as much as $100,000 and/or sentenced to one year in jail. If the contravention causes or contributes to a wildfire, the person responsible may be ordered to pay all firefighting and associated costs.
There is also an increased probability of lightning-caused fires during the summer. The BC Wildfire Service is closely monitoring changing conditions and making necessary preparations with strategic aviation and crew placements.
To report a wildfire, unattended campfire or open burning violation, call 1 800 663-5555 toll-free or *5555 on a cellphone or download the BC Wildfire Service app. The mobile app allows people to submit photos along with their report, which helps inform BC Wildfire Service operational decision-making.
Campfires
- While campfires are allowed in some areas of the province that fall under the BC Wildfire Service’s jurisdiction, people should check with local governments and other authorities, such as BC Parks, to see if burning restrictions or bylaws are in effect.
- If campfires are allowed in your area:
- Keep campfires no larger than 0.5 metres high or 0.5 metres wide.
- Never light a campfire or keep it burning in windy conditions. Weather can change quickly, and wind may carry embers to other flammable material.
- Never leave a campfire unattended.
- Have a shovel or at least eight litres of water available to properly extinguish a campfire.
- Make sure the ashes are cool to the touch before leaving the area for any length of time.
