A BC Day press release from the Southeast Fire Centre indicates a ban on campfire takes effect Tuesday, August 5 at noon.
The measure adds to precautions which include an open burning ban ordered on July 2.
“With the current trend of warm and dry weather in British Columbia, wildfires have displayed very aggressive behaviour and required additional fire suppression resources,” the press release is worded, in part. “Human-caused wildfires can divert critical resources and crews from responding to naturally occurring wildfires.”
Specifically, prohibited activities (as per the press release) will include:
* Campfires, as defined in the wildfire regulation.
* The burning of any waste, slash or other materials.
* Stubble or grass fires of any size over any area.
* The use of burning barrels of any size or description.
* The use of fireworks, sky lanterns, tiki torches or chimineas (outdoor fire pits).
The Southeast Fire Centre, by way of the August 4 communique, stipulates that “The open burning prohibition covers all BC Parks, Crown lands and private lands, but does not apply within the boundaries of local governments that have forest fire prevention bylaws and are serviced by fire departments. Please check with local governments for any other restrictions before lighting any fire.
“Anyone found in violation of a fire prohibition, including campfires, may be issued a ticket for up to $345. Anyone who causes a wildfire through arson or recklessness may be fined up to $1 million, spend up to three years in prison and be held accountable for associated firefighting costs.”
