By Tom Mark

Wildfire Service Issues Warning

Jun 23, 2017 | 1:34 PM

Hot and dry weather is in the forecast for the Kamloops Fire Centre over the next few days, so the BC Wildfire Service is preparing for increased wildfire activity and asking members of the public to report any smoke or fires that they see.

Vernon Fire rescue Services is joining in the warning.

The fire danger rating throughout the Kamloops Fire Centre is currently “moderate” to “high”, with pockets of “extreme” in the Lillooet Fire Zone.

The Kamloops Fire Centre is urging the public to be cautious with campfire use and other outdoor activities that could cause fires.

For example, heat or sparks from dirt bike and ATV exhaust systems could easily start a wildfire in tall grass.

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Although campfires are still permitted throughout the Kamloops Fire Centre, they may not be larger than a half-metre wide or a half-metre high.

Anyone who leaves a campfire unattended for any length of time can be fined $1,150.

A poster explaining B.C.’s campfire regulations is available online at: www.gov.bc.ca/campfireregs

Larger Category 2 and Category 3 open fires are currently prohibited throughout the Kamloops Fire Centre at all elevations.

Other prohibited activities include the use of fireworks, sky lanterns, burning barrels or burning cages of any type, and exploding binary targets.

A poster explaining the different categories of open burning is available online: www.gov.bc.ca/openfireregs

Anyone found in contravention of an open burning prohibition may be issued a ticket for $1,150, required to pay an administrative penalty of $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.

To report a wildfire, unattended campfire or open burning violation, call *5555 on a cellphone or 1 800 663-5555 toll-free.

For the latest information on current wildfire activity, burning restrictions, road closures and air quality advisories, visit: www.bcwildfire.ca

by Tom Mark