BC Wildfire Service Bans Category 3 Fires in Kamloops Fire Centre

The BC Wildfire Service (BCWS) has issued a Category 3 burn prohibition throughout the Kamloops Fire Centre's jurisdiction, effective May 3, 2024, at 12:00 p.m. The ban, which includes Vernon, Kelowna, and the entire Okanagan region, aims to prevent human-caused wildfires and protect public safety. The prohibition will remain in place until October.

Why this matters: The ban highlights the growing concern about wildfires and their impact on public safety, as well as the need for proactive measures to prevent them. By taking steps to reduce fire risks, authorities can help protect not only human lives but also the environment and local ecosystems.

A Category 3 fire refers to fires that burn material in piles exceeding 2 metres in height and 3 metres in width; one or more windrows exceeding 200 metres in length or 15 metres in width; or stubble or grass over an area greater than 0.2 hectares. While smaller pile burning and campfires are still permitted, anyone found to have a Category 3 fire could face a ticket for $1,150, an administrative penalty of up to $10,000, or a fine of up to $100,000 and/or a sentence of up to 1 year in jail if convicted in court. They may also be liable for all firefighting and other costs associated with the blaze if the fire causes or contributes to a wildfire.

The Regional District of North Okanagan (RDNO) reminds, electoral, areas, open burning restrictions in Electoral Areas "B" and "C", which have been in place since April 30. Alastair Crick, Protective Services Manager, emphasized the importance of preparedness, stating, "Federal and Provincial agencies have learned to predict risk seasons with greater accuracy." This helps the RDNO communicate more proactively with residents about the value of eliminating risks and fire fuels around properties.

Residents, especially those in less accessible areas, are encouraged to educate themselves on FireSmart principles to protect private property and reduce fire risks. The RDNO offers resources and advice to help residents take action, including disposing of clean brush and tree waste at local Diversion and Disposal Facilities. Crick added, "We are available to meet with neighborhoods and groups in the area to provide advice on what can be achieved, and methods to reduce the risk."

For more information on open, ban, reduces, north, wildfire, risk, residents can visit www.gov.bc.ca. Additionally, they can receive instant updates on fire conditions by subscribing to the RDNO email list at www.rdno.ca/subscribe. The public is reminded to report fires within city limits to their local fire departments and to inform the BCWS of any wildfires by calling 1-800-663-5555 or by dialing *5555 on a cell phone.

The Category 3 burn prohibition issued by the BC Wildfire Service for the Kamloops Fire Centre, effective May 3, 2024, serves as a crucial measure to prevent human-caused wildfires and protect public safety. With the Regional District of North Okanagan encouraging residents to take FireSmart education and reminding them of open burning restrictions, the collaborative efforts of authorities and the public play a vital role in reducing fire risks throughout the region.

Key Takeaways

• BC Wildfire Service issues Category 3 burn prohibition in Kamloops Fire Centre until October.
• Prohibition aims to prevent human-caused wildfires and protect public safety.
• Category 3 fires include large piles, windrows, and stubble/grass over 0.2 hectares.
• Violators face fines up to $100,000 and/or 1 year in jail, plus firefighting costs.
• Residents encouraged to educate themselves on FireSmart principles to reduce fire risks.