Typically at this time of year, the Prince George Fire Centre begins to experience a fall trend of rain and cooling temperatures, but that is not happening so far this year.

With hunting season upon us and continued warm and dry conditions in the forecast, fire danger ratings in the Prince George Fire Centre currently range from “high” to “extreme” and vegetation is extremely dry.

More human-caused wildfires are usually seen in late August and September due to an increase in recreational forest use, so it’s crucial for the public (including hunters) to remain vigilant when using anything that may spark a fire. As hunters prepare for trips into the backcountry, they also must ensure that they have enough water on hand to fully extinguish any campfires that they light.

If Prince George Fire Centre staff see an increase in wildfire activity caused by improper use of campfires, they will consider implementing a campfire ban. Anyone found in violation of a fire prohibition, including campfires, may be issued a ticket for up to $345. Anyone who causes a wildfire through arson or recklessness may be fined up to $1 million, spend up to three years in prison and be held accountable for associated firefighting costs.

If you see a wildfire or abandoned wildfire, please report it immediately by calling 1 800 663-5555 toll-free or *5555 on most cellphones.

The Prince George Fire Centre covers an area from Yukon and the Northwest Territories in the north to Tweedsmuir Provincial Park, the Cottonwood River and the Robson Valley in the south, and from the Alberta border in the east to the Skeena Mountains in the west.

You can follow the latest B.C. wildfire news:

• On Twitter: http://twitter.com/BCGovFireInfo
• On Facebook: http://facebook.com/BCForestFireInfo

Media Contacts:

Jill Kelsh
Fire Information Officer
Wildfire Management Branch
Prince George Fire Centre
250 565-6129
jillian.kelsh@gov.bc.ca