British Columbians have made more than 6,000 camping reservations for the Victoria Day long weekend representing an approximate 13 per cent increase over the same period last year, Environment Minister Terry Lake said.

British Columbia is sending 41 firefighting personnel to Manitoba to assist that province with its firefighting efforts.

B.C.'s $8.6-billion mining industry has reason to celebrate Mining Week, May 13-19. Employment, revenue, exports, production and prices are all up over previous years and are in a position to continue rising.

With bears seeking out non-natural food sources, Environment Minister Terry Lake is spreading the word to British Columbians to do what they can to control bear attractants and reduce conflicts with bears.

Putting organics in their place is a year-round activity that not only helps feed plants, lawns and hedges throughout British Columbia, but also reduces GHGs.

Effective at 12 noon on Tuesday, May 15, 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.

Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resources staff will team up with RCMP officers and other provincial officials in the Lake Koocanusa area May 17-21, to enforce an Open Fire Prohibition Order and help residents and visitors enjoy a safe and peaceful long weekend.

Anyone conducting spring burning this weekend is reminded to stay vigilant due to forecasts for warmer weather and gusty winds.

While freshet flooding is the current focus in some parts of the province, increasing temperatures are making wildfires an emerging threat in other regions.

Emergency Preparedness Week runs from May 6-12, a time when the weather is improving and British Columbians are eager to get outside and enjoy the mountains, coastline and everything in between.