Due to an elevated wildfire risk in British Columbia, the Wildfire Management Branch has requested the assistance of over 70 additional out-of-province personnel to aid in fire suppression efforts.

In preparation to rest crews for mandatory days off and with the forecasted return to hot and dry conditions by this weekend, Wildfire Management Branch welcomed 153 more fire personnel.

Effective at 12 noon on July 23, campfires remain prohibited in all areas of the Kamloops Fire Centre except the Clearwater Fire Zone.

During an emergency, British Columbians are responsible for more than just their own personal safety.

Many British Columbians are on high alert this week as wildfires burn in the north and central regions of the province.

The Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations plans to aerially treat approximately 23,600 hectares of forest in the Kamloops Timber Supply Area to reduce western spruce budworm populations.

Health Minister Terry Lake announced an additional $2 million in funding for United Way's Better at Home program, which provides non-medical supports to help seniors remain independent in their homes for as long as possible.

Health Minister Terry Lake announced $150,000 to help families living with Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, when he participated in the 19th annual Gutsy Walk fundraiser for Crohn's and Colitis Canada BC-Yukon Division.

In the past five weeks, four automated external defibrillators (AEDs) were placed in the Kamloops area, increasing the chance of a good medical outcome for residents who may suffer a sudden cardiac arrest.