BC Wildfire Service
KAMLOOPS – Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations Minister Steve Thomson is urging all British Columbians to do their part this year to help prevent wildfires and reduce fire risks, including using FireSmart principles to help protect homes and communities.
Many parts of British Columbia are experiencing unseasonably warm and dry conditions this spring. BC Wildfire Service crews have responded to 59 wildfires since April 1, 2016, almost all of which were caused by people.
Fire prevention is a shared responsibility of the B.C. government, local governments, industry, stakeholders and individuals. Wildfires caused by people unnecessarily divert firefighting crews and resources from naturally occurring fires.
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 was developed to help people reduce the risk of personal property damage due to wildfires. It contains lots of fire prevention tips and is available online at: http://bit.ly/1RQXFzd
The B.C. government thanks the public for its ongoing assistance in preventing and reporting wildfires. Anyone who spots a wildfire, unattended campfire or burning violation should immediately call *5555 on a cellphone or 1 800 663-5555 toll-free.
Up-to-date information about current wildfire activity and burning restrictions is available online at: www.bcwildfire.ca