Restrictions on campfires are being implemented ahead of the May long weekend across BC, but the Coastal Wildfire Service says they’re just asking people to be cautious.
Fire information officer Julia Caranci says so far, the region has seen over 20 wildfires since the season began, but they’re not enacting any restrictions but anyone looking to have a fire of any kind should check their local restrictions.
“Within our jurisdiction, we haven’t enacted any prohibitions, and we won’t be doing that before this May long weekend,” she says. “If you’re doing any type of burning, and you’re within a local government’s authority you need to contact them before you do any burning.
The Coastal Wildfire Centre is forecasting seasonal temperatures for the remainder of the month and that could improve conditions, but only for the short term.
Caranci says the long-term forecast for fires really depends on how much rain the region gets but it’s too early to tell.
“We don’t have a great idea, long term, as to what the fire season will look like, but it depends on how much precipitation we receive between now and June,” she says. “That is the key precipitation month for us here on the coast.”
Coastal Wildfire Service says fires are inevitable and everyone should check their local conditions before heading out, and if fires are spotted to report them by calling 800-663-5555 or on your cell phone by dialing *5555.
There are currently prohibitions on Category 2 and 3 fires in the Cariboo region, and Category 3 fires in Kamloops.
