Sustained high temperatures throughout British Columbia this week are increasing the potential for wildfires.
Residents, travellers and campers should be prepared for wildfire and heat, to have an emergency plan and to stay informed as conditions change.
The BC Wildfire Service is closely monitoring these changing conditions and making necessary preparations with strategic aviation and crew placements. Of note is the potential for widespread lightning when the current weather pattern changes.
Wildfire prevention is a shared responsibility. Category 2 and Category 3 open fires are prohibited throughout British Columbia. Campfires are currently permitted within the BC Wildfire Service’s jurisdiction. Escaped campfires can lead to human-caused wildfires, but that does not mean a campfire can’t be enjoyed safely. Patrols will be in place on Crown land.
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 up to $10,000 or, if convicted in court, fined up to $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.
Local governments and other jurisdictional authorities (e.g. BC Parks) may have their own burning restrictions or bylaws in place. It is important to check with these local authorities before lighting any fire.
Stay informed as conditions change at bcwildfire.ca or through the BC Wildfire Service app.
Be ready to evacuate:
Heat warnings:
Preparing for and responding to hot weather:
Travelling: Know Before You Go:
Do not take unnecessary risks in the backcountry:
Full news release available here: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2022FOR0049-001192
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