With temperatures this weekend expected to be above seasonal norms, the BC Wildfire Service is encouraging people who are planning recreational activities in the Harrison Lake area to use caution and remain vigilant.

The BC Wildfire Service has taken the following steps to assist firefighters in the area and protect public safety:

• An area restriction order has been issued for the area that surrounds the Harrison Lake East wildfire. This order came into effect on July 2, 2017 and will remain in effect until Aug. 25, 2017 or until the order is rescinded. For information about this fire, the restricted order area and its boundaries, visit: http://bcfireinfo.for.gov.bc.ca/hprScripts/WildfireNews/OneFire.asp?ID=617
• The Chilliwack Natural Resource District manager issued a Forest Service Road Closure for the Harrison East Forest Service Road, effective July 4, 2017. This road is closed between the 15.0-kilometre mark and the 42.5-kilometre mark.

As of this afternoon, firefighting aircraft were taking water out of Harrison Lake to support fire suppression operations. The public is asked to refrain from boating in the area between Cogburn Beach and Long Island so that they do not disrupt air operations.

Ministry staff will be stepping up patrols in these areas this weekend to ensure compliance with these measures.

To report a wildfire or open burning violation, call 1 800 663-5555 toll-free or *5555 on a cellphone.

For the latest information on fire activity, conditions and prohibitions in B.C., visit: www.bcwildfire.ca

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

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