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Cariboo Fire Centre urges caution when using campfires

Areas west of Williams Lake in the Chilcotin Zone are experiencing very dry conditions with elevated BUI's (Buildup Index).
campfires
While campfires are still permitted in the Cariboo Fire Centre, the public is being urged to be cautious.

The Cariboo Fire Centre is urging the public to be cautious with the use of campfires as summer unfolds. 

  • Is no larger than 0.5 metres high by 0.5 metres wide.
  • Has a fuel break that is clear of debris and combustible materials.
  • Is not lit during windy or unsafe conditions.
  • Is fully extinguished and cold to the touch before being left unattended.

Penalties

  • Anyone found in contravention of an open fire prohibition may be issued a ticket for $1,150, required to pay an administrative penalty of $10,000, or, if convicted in court, fined up to $100,000 and/or sentenced for up to one year in jail.

  • If your fire causes or contributes to a wildfire, you may be fined up to $1 million and/or sentenced to up to 3 years in jail, as well as be responsible for all firefighting and associated costs.

Reporting

  • To report an unattended campfire or open burning violation calling call the RAPP line: 1-877-952-7277 or #7277.
  • To report illegal fires in a local fire department’s jurisdiction, call 9-1-1.
  • Dial *5555 on a cell phone or call 1 800 663-5555 toll-free to report a wildfire.
  • Use the Report function in the BC Wildfire App to report a wildfire. Reporting though the app lets you upload images and can be used without service.

Stay in the know
For the latest information on current wildfire activity, prohibitions and restrictions, road closures, and air-quality advisories please visit BCWildfire.ca, the BC Wildfire Map, or use the BC Wildfire app.

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