By Goat Staff
Campfires are now allowed in the Prince George and Northwest Fire Centres, as of July 28, 2021, but the Robson Valley Fire Zone was quickly put back on a fire ban, effective at noon July 30th.
The fire danger rating for McBride sits at “High” and Valemount is forecast to remain at “Extreme” throughout the long weekend.
The Regional District says while most parts of the Prince George Fire Centre sit at a moderate fire danger rating, the Robson Valley area is still listed at high to extreme.
While campfires will be allowed in other parts of the Prince George Fire Centre, Category 2 and Category 3 open fires remain prohibited, which includes the use of fireworks, sky lanterns, burn barrels and burn cages. These restrictions will remain in place until October 15, 2021, or until the order is rescinded.
For a map of Fire Centre boundaries, please visit: http://ow.ly/OMn950FFxhm.
A poster explaining the different categories of open burning and applicable regulations is available online: www.gov.bc.ca/openfireregs.
Reminders about campfires:
- A campfire is defined as any fire smaller than 0.5 metres high by 0.5 metres wide;
- Never light a campfire or keep it burning in windy conditions. Weather can change quickly and the wind may carry embers to other combustible material;
- Maintain a fireguard around your campfire. This is a fuel-free area where all flammable materials (grass, leaves, kindling, etc.) have been removed right down to the soil;
- Never leave a fire unattended;
- Make sure that any fire is completely extinguished, and the ashes are cold to the touch before leaving the area for any length of time.
To report a wildfire or an open burning violation, call *5555 on a cell phone or 1-800-663-5555 toll-free. For the latest information on current wildfire activity, burning restrictions, road closures and air quality advisories, visit: http://www.bcwildfire.ca.
