Raging B.C. wildfires have burned through more than half of the wildfire-fighting budget.

As of May 27, the cost of fighting wildfires in 2016 reached $37,836,773 – 60 per cent of the $63 million allotted for the entire 2016 season.

A seemingly small firefighting budget considering $278 million was spent in 2015, and the average expense for the last 10 years has been $200 million per fire season.

“This cost reflects the high amount of wildfire activity BC Wildfire Service crews have been responding to in the B.C. Peace region this year,” says Ryan Turcot, a fire information officer.

“Since April 1, 2016, BC Wildfire crews have responded to 318 wildfires – over 240 of which are believed to be human-caused.”

Turcot adds that just one human-caused wildfire is one too many.

“If you do see wildfire or column of smoke, immediately report any info you have to *5555 on a cellphone or 1-800-663-5555 toll-free.”