An open burning ban will be in effect in the Prince George Fire Centre area starting at noon on Friday.
The ban applies to all Class 2 and Class 3 fires, fireworks, sky lanterns, burn barrels and burn cages. The order lasts until noon on Oct. 15, or until the order is lifted.
The Prince George Fire Centre area starts just north of Quesel and runs up to the Yukon border, and from west of Vanderhoof to the Alberta border.
Campfires 50 cm (19.6 inches) or smaller in height and diameter are still allowed. Gas, propane and briquette barbecues and cooking stoves are also still permitted.
Anyone found in contravention of the open burning ban can be fined for $1,150, and face legal penalties up to $100,000 and/or one year in jail. If the contravention causes a wildfire, the person responsible can be ordered to pay all the firefighting and associated costs.
To report a wildfire, unattended campfire or open burning violation, call 1-800-663-5555 or *5555 on a cell phone. For the latest information about fire bans throughout the province, go online to www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/safety/wildfire-status/fire-bans-and-restrictions.
