The BC Wildfire Service is urging caution for those having campfires and spending time in the backcountry during the Canada Day long weekend.
At present, campfires are allowed throughout the province, although Category 2 and Category 3 open fires are prohibited under Section 10 of the Wildfire Act. Other activities, including fireworks, are prohibited under Section 12 of the act.
The wildfire service is asking people to adhere to the province’s Category 1 campfire regulations.
The fire may be no larger than 0.5 metres high and 0.5 metres wide. A fuel break must be in place around the campfire, clearing the area of debris and anything combustible. A rock ring, fire pit or other non-flammable barrier can also help prevent a fire from spreading. Fire users must have at least eight litres of water or a hand tool such as a shovel. Fires should not be lit or burning during windy conditions, and must not be left unattended.
The fire must be completely extinguished, with ashes cool to the touch, before leaving the fire site.
“We encourage the public to spend time outdoors but are reminding everyone to practice proper fire safety,” a news release from the BC Wildfire Service states. “Human-caused wildfires are preventable and direct critical resources from other priorities. Be sure to practice safe and responsible campfire use during the long weekend.”
To report a wildfire, unattended campfire or open burning violation, call 1-800-663-5555 toll-free or *5555 on a cell phone.
While campfires are still allowed, wildfires have destroyed land in British Columbia this year.
As of June 28, the amount burned in the 2024 wildfire season is 350,212 hectares, with most of the fire damage in northeastern British Columbia. According to the BC Wildfire Service, the 20-year average is 435,479 hectares burned throughout the fire season. In 2023, the worst year on record, more than 2.8 million hectares was destroyed throughout British Columbia.
