Go ahead and have a campfire this B.C. Day long weekend

PENTICTON – We’re on the verge of the B.C. Day long weekend and something special is happening this year.

The province currently allows campfires in all areas of the province that fall under its jurisdiction. B.C. Wildfire Service says the last time there was no campfire ban this late in the fire season was 2016.

Wildfire activity so far this summer has been relatively normal, but August has typically been the most active part of the province’s wildfire season, according to a B.C. Wildfire media release.

With things drying out over the past week and temperatures on the rise, British Columbians are being urged to continue doing everything they can to prevent wildfires this weekend and in the coming weeks.

“B.C. Wildfire crews have been doing a great job attacking this year’s fires quickly and decisively, but it’s important we don’t get complacent about wildfire risks,” Minister of Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operations Doug Donaldson says in the release.

Local governments and other jurisdictional authorities may have their own burning restrictions or bylaws in place. Those wishing to have a campfire need to ensure they check with local authorities before lighting any fire.

Information on current open burning prohibitions is available here.

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