The provincial government is urging British Columbians to do their part to help prevent wildfires and reduce fire risks.
BC Wildfire Service crews have responded to 59 wildfires since April 1, almost all of which were caused by people. Fires in the Prince George Fire Centre have taken out 88 hectares since April 1.
Homeowners are encouraged to safeguard their properties from wildfire threats by using FireSmart principles.
By reducing the amount of flammable material around their homes and providing more open space where firefighters can work, private property owners can help slow the spread of an approaching wildfire.
The recently updated FireSmart Homeowner's Manual is available online at: bit.ly/1RQXFzd
Up-to-date information about current wildfire activity and burning restrictions is available online at: www.bcwildfire.ca.
The latest wildfire news can also be found on Twitter at: twitter.com/BCGovFireInfo and on Facebook at: facebook.com/BCForestFireInfo.
Anyone found in contravention of an open fire prohibition may be issued a ticket for $1,150 or, if convicted in court, be fined up to $100,000 and sentenced to one year in jail. If the contravention causes or contributes to a wildfire, the person responsible may be subject to a penalty of up to $10,000 and be ordered to pay all firefighting and associated costs.
Anyone who spots a wildfire, unattended campfire or burning violation should immediately call *5555 on a cellphone or 1 800 663-5555 toll-free.
