Warm Long Weekend Poses Fire Threat

By 250 News

Prince George, B.C. - Heading in to the  long weekend, the Prince George Fire District is remiding  people to be careful with  any open flame.

Since April, the Prince George Fire Centre has responded to  31 fires, the majority of which  were caused by escaped open burns.  Provincially, there  have been 179 fires since April,  and over 95% were caused by  people.

The Prince George Fire Centre is expected to experience warm and dry weather over the long weekend, with temperatures forecasted to drop next week. The fire danger rating is currently low to moderate throughout most of the region, with some areas of high danger.

Escaped campfires can and do cause wildfires. Campers lighting a fire should have water and hand tools ready to prevent the fire from escaping, and should never leave their campfire unattended. To extinguish a campfire, saturate it with water until the ashes are completely cold to the touch. Individuals considering conducting an open burn are advised to check with local authorities to determine if there are any restrictions in effect.

Never leave your fire unattended, and make sure it is completely out before leaving the area. Individuals conducting burning are reminded that they may be liable for fire suppression costs and damages should their fire escape.

The Prince George Fire Centre covers the eastern portion of the Northern Interior Forest Region and the extreme northern portion of the Southern Interior Forest Region, which is from the Yukon and Northwest Territories in the north, to Tweedsmuir Provincial Park, Cottonwood River and Robson Valley in the south; and from the Alberta border in the east to the Skeena Mountains in the west.

For the latest information on fire bans, fire danger ratings and weather information visit the Protection program website: www.bcwildfire.ca .

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