Wildfire Investigators Being Trained

By 250 News

Merritt, B.C.- Another 25 people are being trained as origin and cause wildland fire investigators. That will bring the total of such investigators in B.C. to 65.

Forests and Range Minister Pat Bell says the Province is actively ramping up its enforcement efforts “"Not only are we increasing the number of wildfire investigators, we will be increasing the number of campfire patrols as we move into summer. Check for any bans before lighting a campfire - otherwise you could end up with a $345 ticket - and remember we will be exercising zero tolerance."

The week-long training session in Merritt consists of practical evaluations, classroom work, 36 hours of field exercises and a final written exam. Ministry of Forests and Range compliance and enforcement officers will learn to track fire origins from a variety of sources, including cigarettes, lightning and sparks from off-road vehicles. Theywill also gain knowledge of wildfire behaviour, burn indicators and how to undertake complex investigations, like those that deal with arson.

 Last year, 219 fire-related investigations were completed, resulting in 170 Wildfire Act and Regulation violation tickets. Investigations may also lead to administrative hearings, prosecution and penalties of up to $1 million.

 Since April 1, provincial fire crews have responded to more than 240 fires across the province, the majority of which were human-caused.

Email | Print | Facebook | Twitter | Digg | Del.icio.us