Effective at noon Pacific Time on Thursday, July 2, 2015, Category 2 and Category 3 open fires will be prohibited in the Prince George Fire Centre to help prevent human-caused wildfires and protect public safety.

Effective at noon on Friday, July 3, 2015, all open fires - including campfires - will be prohibited throughout the entire Kamloops Fire Centre. This prohibition will remain in place until the public is otherwise notified.

Effective at noon Pacific Time on Friday, July 3, 2015, campfires will be prohibited throughout the Southeast Fire Centre to help prevent human-caused wildfires and protect public safety.

The Wildfire Management Branch is currently responding to eight new wildfires in the Prince George Fire Centre. Six of these fires are in the northeast corner of the province.

As outdoor enthusiasts take to the backcountry this weekend, the Wildfire Management Branch is encouraging all recreationalists to avoid areas within the vicinity of the 586 hectare Elaho Wildfire.

The Southeast Fire Centre is asking anyone considering outdoor recreation activities over the weekend to be extremely vigilant as fuels could easily ignite.

The Wildfire Management Branch is currently responding to 15 new wildfires in the Prince George Fire centre, all of which started on Thursday, June 25.

Anyone planning to go camping or spend time in the backcountry this weekend or on the Canada Day holiday must comply with provincial regulations regarding campfire restrictions and safety.

People who enjoy exploring B.C.'s spectacular backcountry need to do it responsibly and be aware of their legal obligations, or they may face hefty fines and possible jail time.