THE VOICE OF CANADA NEWS
Due to the dry conditions that the Northwest Fire Centre is currently experiencing and the ongoing wildfire risk, the BC Wildfire Service is urging the public and industry to use extreme caution when participating in any activity that could potentially spark a wildfire.
All open burning, including campfires, is prohibited throughout the Northwest Fire Centre until further notice.
The Northwest Fire Centre has not implemented any backcountry closures at this time, and trails and backroads that are not affected by area restriction orders or evacuation orders remain open for public use. However, members of the public must remain vigilant and behave responsibly when out in the backcountry.
- Operators of off-road vehicles can do their part by staying on established trails and avoiding tinder-dry areas, as heat from an exhaust system can start a wildfire. Idling in tall grass should be avoided for the same reason.
- Drivers should ensure that their off-road vehicles are well maintained. All off-road vehicles are required to have a spark arrestor installed to reduce wildfire risks when operating on Crown land. More information is available online: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2018FLNR0044-000479
- Avoid carrying glass containers into the backcountry, since they can start fires by acting like a magnify glass.
- Be aware of the wildfire hazard in your area and carry a small fire extinguisher, collapsible bucket and small shovel to extinguish any fire that you accidentally start.
- All users of forests and grassland in B.C. need to be aware of their legal obligations. Information about the Wildfire Act is available online: http://www.bclaws.ca/civix/document/id/complete/statreg/04031_01
- Information about the Wildfire Regulation is available online: http://www.bclaws.ca/Recon/document/ID/freeside/11_38_2005
The BC Wildfire Service thanks members of the public and industry personnel for their continued co-operation and assistance in reporting wildfires.
To report smoke, flames or any open burning violation, call 1 800 663-5555 toll-free, or *5555 on a cellphone.
For the latest information on current wildfire activity, burning restrictions, road closures and air quality advisories, visit: http://www.bcwildfire.ca
