Public urged to use caution when outdoor burning in Prince George Fire Centre…

FORT ST. JOHN

Saturday, April 29, 2023 | 2:22 pm

BC Wildfire Service is responding to several incidents in the Peace River Region, including G70124 located north of Highway 29 and Moberly Lake. This incident is approximately 50 hectares in size and highly visible from the highway.

BC Wildfire Service urges members of the public and industry personnel to exercise caution when conducting outdoor burning as conditions across the region indicate increased fire danger.

The weather forecast shows steadily climbing temperatures, clear skies and generally light winds through the weekend. While there are currently no open fire bans or restrictions in the Prince George Fire Centre, anyone conducting an outdoor burn must adhere to the following precautions:

• Ensure that adequate resources are on hand to control the fire and stop it from spreading;
• Never burn in windy conditions. Weather conditions can change quickly, and the wind may carry embers to other combustible material and start new fires;
• Create an appropriately sized fireguard around the planned fire site by clearing away twigs, grass, leaves and other combustible material, right down to the mineral soil;
• Never leave a fire unattended;
• Make sure that any fire is completely extinguished, and the ashes are cold to the touch before leaving the area for any length of time

For more information regarding the Ventilation Index and Open Burning and Smoke Control Regulations, please visit: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/environment/air-land-water/air/air-pollution/smoke-burning/ventilation-index

Everyone in the province has a critical role in preventing wildfire. Human caused fires are completely preventable and divert critical resources away from naturally caused fires. To report a wildfire, unattended campfire or open burning violation, please call 1-800-663-5555 toll-free or *5555 on a cellphone.

Written and released by BC Wildfire.