NEWS RELEASE

For Immediate Release 2010FOR0116-000882 July 26, 2010

Ministry of Forests and Range

 

HOT, DRY CONDITIONS PROMPT MORE CAMPFIRE BANS FOR B.C.

 

Victoria – As of noon on Thursday, July 29, campfire bans will be in effect around most of the province, Minister of Forests and Range Pat Bell said today.

 

            “We are heading into the peak fire season and the fire danger rating for most of the province is high to extreme,” said Bell. “Rain isn’t expected in the immediate future so we are implementing these bans to limit the chance of human-caused fires.”

 

            Fires of any size, including campfires, fires with a burn registration number and industrial burning, fireworks, tiki torches and burning barrels will be prohibited in the Kamloops, Northwest, Cariboo and Prince George Fire Centres. This is in addition to the ban already in effect in the Coastal Fire Centre. Maps of the specific prohibition areas will be available at www.firesafebc.ca by clicking on “Current Conditions & Bans.”

 

 “Many people feel that campfires are part and parcel with camping,” said Bell. “But there is a wide array of activities that you can take part in while enjoying B.C.’s outdoors. Go for a hike, build a sandcastle with your kids or swim in the river. There is so much to enjoy out there.”

 

The public is urged to exercise extreme caution on forested land with any activity that could lead to a wildfire. Make sure to extinguish cigarettes safely and avoid driving ATVs and motorcycles through tall grass and undergrowth.

 

             “If you ignore a campfire ban, you will be fined $345. If your recklessness causes a wildfire, you could be fined up to $1 million or spend three years in prison and be held responsible for fire suppression costs,” said Bell. “Compliance and enforcement officers, including the RCMP, will be out in full force during the August long weekend.”

 

            Also, as lightning becomes more common in the hot, dry summer months, it is crucial that crews are available to respond to naturally occurring wildfires. Person-caused wildfires divert critical resources away from managing these lightning-caused fires.

 

To report a wildfire or unattended campfire call *5555 on your cell or toll-free 1 800 663-5555.  For the latest information on fire activity, conditions and prohibitions, visit the Wildfire Management Branch website at www.bcwildfire.ca. For Facebook and Twitter updates, as well as details about evacuation orders and alerts, road conditions and air quality advisories, go to www.firesafebc.ca.

 

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Contact:

Cheekwan Ho Public Affairs Officer Ministry of Forests and Range 250 387-8482

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