The Northwest Fire Centre is encouraging the public to be extra cautious with campfires and open burning activities this weekend, due to a forecast of dry and warm weather in the region.

Even though it has been a quiet forest fire season so far, people should not become complacent about campfire use or open fires.

• Burning should only be done away from branches, wood and other combustible materials.

• Enough people, water and tools should be on hand to control the fire and prevent it from escaping.

• Never burn in windy conditions, since weather conditions can change quickly and carry embers to other combustible material and start new fires.

• Never leave a fire unattended.

• Make sure that the fire is completely extinguished and the embers are cold before leaving the area.

Anyone planning a large-scale industrial burn (Category 3) must call 1 888 797-1717 and obtain a burn registration number ahead of time. More information is available at: http://bcwildfire.ca/hprScripts/WildfireNews/Bans.asp

Venting conditions should always be checked before conducting an open burn. If conditions are rated "Poor" or "Fair", open burning is restricted. The venting index can be found at: http://www.bcairquality.ca/readings/ventilation-index.html

Burning should not be done if local air flow will cause the smoke to negatively affect nearby communities or residences. For more information on the Open Burning Smoke Control Regulation, visit: http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/epd/bcairquality/reports/agttobsc.html

To report a wildfire or unattended campfire, call *5555 on your cellphone or call 1 800 663-5555 toll-free.

For the latest information on fire activity, conditions and prohibitions, visit the Wildfire Management Branch website: www.bcwildfire.ca

You can also follow the latest wildfire news on Twitter at: http://twitter.com/BCGovFireInfo or on Facebook at: http://facebook.com/BCForestFireInfo

Media Contact:

Lindsay Carnes
Fire Information Officer
Northwest Fire Centre
250 877-9356