British Columbia's natural resource officers, park rangers and conservation officers will be busy over the Victoria Day long weekend helping residents and visitors enjoy a safe and peaceful holiday.

The public is asked to exercise caution, and prepare for localized flooding as water levels in Nicola Lake, the Nicola River and surrounding streams increase due to rapid snowmelt and recent high temperatures.

Effective at noon on Wednesday, May 15, 2013, the size of open fires will be restricted in most of the Kamloops Fire Centre to help prevent human-caused wildfires and protect the public.

Recreational users are advised that effective immediately access to three local recreation sites has been affected due to recent spring run-off.

The Wildfire Management Branch is sending 13 personnel to Alberta to assist Parks Canada in carrying out prescribed burns.

The Northwest Fire Centre is urging the public to exercise caution with any outdoor burning activities this week due to more hot and dry weather expected in the region.

Effective noon on Thursday, May 9, 2013, Category 2 open fires and the use of fireworks will be prohibited in the Fort St. John and Dawson Creek fire zones.

The public is urged to take extra care near the Okanagan River because of high water levels.

The Prince George Fire Centre is asking the public to exercise caution with any outdoor burning activities this spring.

When it comes to newborn wild animals, mother always knows best, and so with fawning and calving season underway, provincial biologists are reminding people that newborn deer, elk or moose should not be touched or moved when encountered.