Open burning is now allowed in the Kamloops Fire Centre’s jurisdiction, including the use of fireworks, sky lanterns, burn barrels, burn cages, binary exploding targets and tiki torches.
Fire danger ratings have dropped to “low” in most of the Kamloops Fire Centre and the weather forecast is calling for cooler temperatures, higher humidity and a good amount of precipitation.
The BC Wildfire Service takes a few factors into account before canceling open burning prohibitions.
They include weighing the needs of the public with the need to manage the risk of human-caused wildfires—the BC Wildfire Service has enough fire response resources ready in case any new wildfires start.
Local governments may still have their own burning restrictions in place, so people should always check with local authorities before lighting a fire of any size.
They should use caution and be aware of local conditions that might impact their ability to burn safely and control their open fires.
Anyone lighting a larger Category 3 fire must first get a burn registration number by calling 1 888 797-1717.
A Category 3 fire is a fire that burns material more than two metres high or three metres wide, or stubble or grass more than 2,000 square metres, or more than two piles of any size. A poster explaining the different categories of open fires is available online at http://ow.ly/jdO5301kS32
Anyone who lights an open fire has to comply with B.C.’s air quality control laws; the BC Wildfire Service urges people to take the following steps with any allowed outdoor burning:
Make sure enough people, water and tools are on hand to control the fire and stop it escaping.
Don’t burn in windy conditions; the weather can change quickly and wind may carry embers to other flammable material and start new fires.
Create a fire guard around the planned fire site by clearing away twigs, grass, leaves and other combustible material right down to the soil.
Never leave a fire unattended.
Make sure your fire is fully extinguished and the ashes are cold to the touch before leaving the area for any length of time.
To report a wildfire, unattended campfire or open burning violation, call 1 800 663-5555 toll-free or 5555 on a cell phone.