Effective at noon on Thursday, June 4, 2015, Category 2 open fires will once again be permitted in the Southeast Fire Centre due to a decreased risk of wildfires.

The public is now permitted to burn waste, slash or other materials in a pile not exceeding two metres in height and three metres in width. The rescinding of this prohibition does not include Category 3 fires. A map of the Category 3 prohibition area is available online at: http://bit.ly/1Qa2mZQ

For more information on the difference between campfires, Category 2 fires and Category 3 fires, please visit: http://bit.ly/1GlhE9l

The rescinding of the Category 2 open fire prohibition applies to all BC Parks, Crown lands and private lands, but does not apply within the boundaries of a local government that has forest fire prevention bylaws and is serviced by a fire department.

Anyone contemplating lighting an open fire should first check with local authorities to see if any other burning restrictions are in effect.

Anyone planning to conduct an open burn should use caution and follow these safety precautions:

• Locate the fire site away from buildings, trees and other combustible materials.
• Do not burn during windy conditions.
• Have adequate people, water and hand tools available to prevent the fire escaping.
• Never leave a fire unattended.
• Ensure that the fire is completely extinguished and the ashes are cold to the touch before leaving the area for any length of time.

Anyone lighting a fire must ensure that the burn is conducted safely and responsibly, as outlined in the Wildfire Act and its regulations. If an open fire escapes and is determined to have caused a wildfire, the person(s) responsible may be liable for fire suppression costs and damages.

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

For the latest information on current wildfire activity, burning restrictions, road closures and air quality advisories, visit: http://www.bcwildfire.ca

You can also follow the latest wildfire news on:

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

Media Contacts:

Jordan Turner
Fire Information Officer
Wildfire Management Branch
Southeast Fire Centre
250 365-4014