The Kamloops Fire Centre is reminding the public that only campfires smaller than a half-metre wide by a half-metre tall are permitted in the Kamloops Fire Centre. Any open fire larger than this is prohibited.

The Wildfire Management Branch has received numerous reports of oversized bonfires and graduation party fires throughout the area. Anyone found in contravention of an open fire ban may be issued a ticket for $345 or, if convicted in court, be fined up to $100,000 and sentenced to one year in jail.

If the contravention causes a wildfire, the person may be subject to a penalty of up to $10,000 and be ordered to pay all firefighting and associated costs.

Since April 1, there have been 53 wildfires within the Kamloops Fire Centre's boundaries, of which 46 were person-caused. Every year, half of all wildfires are caused by human activity and, therefore, preventable.

The Wildfire Management Branch thanks the public for their co-operation in complying with open fire bans and assisting in the detection of wildfires.

To report unauthorized burning or an unattended campfire, please call *5555 on your cellphone or toll-free to 1 800 663-5555.

For the latest information on restrictions, visit: www.bcwildfire.ca

Media Contact:

Kayla Pepper

Fire Information Officer

Kamloops Fire Centre

250 554-5530 (office)

250 318-6959 (cell)

Connect with the Province of B.C. at: www.gov.bc.ca/connect