The Cariboo Fire Centre/Wildfire Management Branch would like to remind the public to remain vigilant with fire use, including campfires, despite cooler weather, reports fire information officer Greig Bethel.
In his report today, Aug. 27 Bethel said grass fires are of concern at this time of the year due to natural drying, including frost curing in areas of high elevation like the Chilcotin, which allows grass to burn easier.
The overnight low recorded at Puntzi Mountain (elevation 2,985 feet/910 metres) was 1.1 degrees Celsius.
Data from CFC/WMB weather stations show that the fire danger rating is “extreme” for the following areas: Alexis Creek, Middle Lake, Puntzi Mountain, Riske Creek and Tatla Lake in the Chilcotin; Churn Creek; Knife, south of Williams Lake; Lone Butte; and Young Lake, east of Clinton.
A fire danger rating of “extreme” means: Extremely dry forest fuels and the fire risk is very serious. New fires will start easily, spread rapidly and challenge fire suppression efforts. General forest activities may be restricted, including open burning, industrial activities and campfires.
Areas of “high” within the CFC are: Anahim Lake and Nemiah in the Chilcotin; Horsefly, Likely and Prairie Creek; Meadow Lake, west of 100 Mile House; and Nazko.
A fire danger rating of “high” means: Forest fuels are very dry and the fire risk is serious. New fires may start easily, burn vigorously and challenge fire suppression efforts. Extreme caution must be used in any forest activities. Open burning and industrial activities may be restricted.
Both Quesnel and Williams Lake currently have a “moderate” fire danger rating. A fire danger rating of “moderate” means: Forest fuels are drying and there is an increased risk of surface fires starting. Carry out any forest activities with caution.
There is an open burning prohibition in effect for the entire Cariboo-Chilcotin region. This ban restricts open burning of any type, including waste, slash, stubble or grass.
Campfires and burn barrels kept under 0.5 metres high by 0.5 metres wide are permitted, but please use regular prevention and suppression precautions.
For fire danger rating map: http://bcwildfire.ca/Weather/Maps/danger_rating.htm
For danger class report and CFC weather station data: http://bcwildfire.ca/hprScripts/DgrCls/index.asp?Region=7
