Summary

• There are currently 160 active wildfires burning in B.C., with fire prohibitions and restrictions in effect throughout much of the province
• Plan ahead and check road conditions before heading out, as roads throughout B.C. may be busier than usual
• Pre-register for Emergency Support Services now to save time if an evacuation order is issued
• Report signs of wildfire as soon as they are noticed, using the BC Wildfire Service app

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As people in B.C. mark the last long weekend of summer before students head back to school, everyone is encouraged to plan ahead, stay informed, be safe and continue to watch for seasonal risks.

While summer is coming to a close, wildfire season is not over and there are still active evacuation orders and alerts. Residents and visitors are reminded to stay alert and follow all fire prohibitions and restrictions, as well as emergency instructions from local governments and First Nations.

If travel is part of the long weekend plan, use the BC Wildfire map to know where wildfires are actively burning and check DriveBC for updates about road closures and conditions: https://drivebc.ca

Travel in B.C.

Most of the province remains open, accessible and ready to welcome visitors. People whose plans are affected by wildfires or smoke can consider looking for alternative destinations throughout British Columbia to visit, or rescheduling rather than cancelling.

Residents and visitors can access the latest travel information through Destination BC's Know Before You Go webpage and by connecting with one of B.C.’s 130-plus community visitor centres, which can provide up-to-date advice on regional conditions, route impacts, accommodations and local services.

Many communities and businesses have been affected by the impacts of wildfires. If plans allow, exploring B.C. is a great way to support local businesses, attractions, accommodations, and restaurants as they continue their recovery efforts.

Know the fire prohibitions and restrictions

Different parts of B.C. have different fire prohibitions and restrictions in place. While campfires or open burning may be permitted in some areas, they may not be allowed in others. Before lighting any fire, check with local authorities to see what is allowed in the area and visit the BC Wildfire Service website or app for current B.C. fire prohibitions and restrictions. Fire prohibitions and restrictions in all regions will be updated as conditions change.

In areas where campfires are permitted, be sure to build and maintain them safely:

• Use a proper fire pit or make a ring of rocks away from trees, bushes and other flammable things.
• Never light a fire when it is windy. 
• Always watch the fire. Never leave it alone.
• Put out the fire completely before leaving, ensuring ashes are cool to the touch.
• Dispose of smoking materials such as cigarette butts responsibly, ensuring they are completely extinguished.

People who ride all-terrain vehicles in forests must have a spark arrester on their vehicle. This stops sparks from starting fires. Always check the muffler, keep grass clear from hot auto parts and stay on dirt paths.

Approximately 40% of new fires are reported by the public. If anyone sees a fire, they are encouraged to report it right away. More than 1,700 reports of wildfires have been made through the BC Wildfire App, which allows for photos and a location to be included in fire reports. Reports can also be made by calling 1-800-663-5555 (toll-free) or *5555 (mobile).

As of Thursday, Sept. 3, there are 160 wildfires burning in B.C. Of these, 18 are out of control.

Prepare home and family

Whether taking time away or staying close to home, take a few moments to prepare for wildfires and other emergencies. Use these FireSmart tips to keep homes safe:

• Clear dry leaves and sticks from around the house.
• Keep propane barbecues, firewood piles and other fuel sources at least 10 metres away from the home.
• Keep grass short (shorter than 10 cm is recommended) and trim trees and shrubs.
• Ensure gutters are clear of debris.

To prepare for wildfire:

• Check home or tenant insurance to make sure it has wildfire coverage. Call the insurance representative to discuss coverage or contact the Insurance Bureau of Canada at 1-844-227-5422.
• Pre-register for Emergency Support Services through the B.C. Services Card app or at: ess.gov.bc.ca 
  Doing this now can save time if an evacuation order is issued.
• Check your family’s emergency plan and make sure everyone in the household knows what to do in case of an evacuation alert or order.
• Pack grab-and-go bags for each member of the household, including pets. Bags should have medications, important papers, phone chargers, water, food and clothes. Keep bags at home, at work and in the car.
• Make sure vehicle fuel or charge is at least half full.
• Stay informed by checking with the local government, First Nation or EmergencyInfoBC for the latest emergency information. If directed to evacuate, follow all instructions from local officials.

Conserve water during dry conditions

Prolonged dry conditions are taking a toll on water levels throughout B.C., with drought expected to continue through the rest of summer and into the fall. Some communities are currently facing increased water scarcity risks as a result. People are encouraged to be water wise, conserve water and follow local water restrictions.

Communities are encouraged to consider water-use restrictions that reflect current pressures on shared water resources. Water suppliers should continue to monitor the B.C. Drought Information Portal and ensure their emergency response and contingency plans account for potential water shortages.

Monitor local air quality

Wildfire smoke can travel far from fires and stay in the air for days. When there is smoke in the area, it is important to take precautions. Check the air-quality warnings before going outside and pay attention to air-quality advisories issued by the local health authority. People can also sign up to get alerts about poor air quality using the WeatherCAN app.

How to protect from smoke:

• Stay indoors when possible and keep doors and windows closed.
• Take it easy and avoid hard exercise outside.
• Use high-efficiency air filters in the ventilation system or create a clean-air space at home using a commercial or do-it-yourself portable air cleaner.
• Go to libraries, shopping centres or community centres if the home gets too smoky. Public spaces tend to have cleaner and cooler indoor air. 
• Consider wearing a respirator or other type of face mask when going outdoors. A well-fitted N95/KN95/K494 respirator offers the best protection.

People with asthma, heart problems or lung disease need to be extra careful during smoky days. Pregnant people, infants, young children and older adults should also take extra precautions.

Backcountry trip planning

People going camping or hiking, especially in the wilderness or backcountry, plan ahead. Follow the three Ts: trip planning, training and taking essentials to help ensure a safe return home.

Road safety

Higher-than-average traffic volumes are expected provincewide and travellers should plan ahead and check road conditions before heading out. Stay safe by:

• allowing extra time to reach the destination
• making sure the vehicle has sufficient fuel for the drive and checking oil, washer fluid, lights and tires, including the spare
• packing food and water for passengers and pets
• planning breaks at rest areas
• watching for motorcyclists and sharing the road with cyclists and other users
• obeying posted speed limits and driving with caution, especially in mountain passes where conditions can change quickly
• checking DriveBC before travel to get the most up-to-date information on road conditions: https://drivebc.ca

A backgrounder follows.