While the fire danger rating has dropped in some areas of the Southeast Fire Centre, parts of the Arrow fire zone and the entire Boundary fire zone are experiencing an increased fire danger rating.

Fire officials are urging campers and hunters to use extreme caution this long weekend and are cautioned that if unsafe fire use is observed, a campfire ban may be implemented. Enforcement personnel will be on patrol to ensure campfire compliance and safety. So far this year, there have been 44 person-caused wildfires in the Southeast Fire Centre, diverting critical resources away from managing naturally occurring fires.

Leaving your campfire unattended can result in a $345 fine. In addition, if your campfire escapes and causes a wildfire, you may be held liable for all resulting suppression costs and damages. Please ensure you never leave your campfire unattended and make sure it is completely out before leaving the area.

The fire danger rating is high to extreme in the Boundary and Arrow fire zones and is low to moderate in the Kootenay Lake, Columbia, Invermere and Cranbrook zones.

Quick Facts:

• Since April 1, the Southeast Fire Centre has responded to 102 wildfires, consuming a total of 40 hectares. Fifty-eight of those were caused by lightning.
• A total of 256 campfire incidents have been reported in the Southeast Fire Centre. The five-year average for this time of year is 177.
• To report a wildfire or unattended campfire, call *5555 on your cellphone or toll-free to 1 800 663-5555.
• Currently there are open burning restrictions within the Southeast Fire Centre's jurisdiction. For information on burn restrictions, please visit: http://bcwildfire.ca

Learn More:

For the latest information on current wildfire activity, burning restrictions, road closures and air quality advisories, go to: http://www.bcforestfireinfo.gov.bc.ca

You can also follow the latest wildfire news -

On Twitter at: http://twitter.com/#!/BCGovFireInfo

On Facebook at: http://facebook.com/BCForestFireInfo

Media Contact:

Erin Catherall
Fire Information Officer
Southeast Fire Centre
250 365-4056