Natural resource officers from the Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations visited a series of recreational spots in the Thompson Okanagan Region Aug. 3-5 to help residents and visitors enjoy a safe B.C. Day long weekend.

The officers conducted numerous vehicle, boat and foot patrols of lakes and recreation sites and were joined by conservation officers in some areas. The officers travelled about 1,050 kilometres, covering the Okanagan Valley, Mabel Lake, Voght Valley, Kane Valley, Shuswap Lake, Mara Lake, Adams Lake, Duffy Lake and Goose Lake.

The natural resource officers spoke with over 200 members of the public throughout the weekend. The vast majority of people were co-operative and were complying with campfire, fishing and boat safety regulations.

However, four violation tickets and 11 written warnings were issued related to fishing offences, boating infractions, noise levels and improper fire use (including one oversized campfire and three unattended campfires).

Ignoring B.C.'s campfire regulations can result in a $345 fine. Anyone who causes a wildfire through arson or recklessness can be fined up to $1 million and/or spend three years in prison.

Learn More:

• For the latest information on fire activity, conditions and prohibitions, visit the Wildfire Management Branch website: www.bcwildfire.ca
• To report a wildfire, dial *5555 on your cellphone or call toll-free to 1 800 663-5555.

Media Contacts:

Kyle Beadman
Supervisor - Compliance and Enforcement
Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations
250 260-4612 (Vernon)

Brennan Clarke
Public Affairs Officer
Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations
250 356-5261 (Victoria)