Campfire ban rescinded for Kamloops Fire Centre

KAMLOOPS – Effective at noon on Monday, Aug. 26, campfires will be
permitted throughout the Kamloops Fire Centre.

The campfire ban is being rescinded due to recent widespread
precipitation that has resulted in a decreased risk of wildfires in
the region.

Anyone lighting a campfire must follow B.C.’s campfire regulations,
which include the following:

* The campfire must not exceed the allowed size of a half-metre wide
by a half-metre high.
* Flammable material (such a twigs and pine needles) must be removed
from around the campfire area and this fuel-free area must be
maintained while the campfire is burning.
* A shovel or at least eight litres of water must be on site to
properly extinguish the fire.
* Never leave a campfire unattended.
* The ashes must be cool to the touch before you leave the area.

Category 2 and 3 open fires remain prohibited for the entire Kamloops
Fire Centre. This prohibition includes all open fires larger than a
half-metre high by a half-metre wide, fires with a burn registration
number, industrial burning, fireworks, sky lanterns and burning
barrels.

Anyone found in violation of an open fire ban may be issued a ticket
for up to $345. If that fire leads to a wildfire, the person(s)
responsible may be fined up to $1 million, spend up to three years in
prison and be held accountable for associated firefighting costs.

These prohibitions cover all BC Parks, Crown lands and private lands,
but do 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 a fire.

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