Category two fire ban begins July 11 in southeast B.C.

Category 2 open fires will be prohibited across the region as of noon on Friday, July 11, due to increased wildfire risk.

The restriction will remain in effect until at least October 30, unless posted, and applies to the Rocky Mountain and Selkirk Natural Resource Districts, including all lands outside municipal boundaries and in designated parks and protected areas.

The ban includes:

• Burning of material in one or two piles not exceeding 2 metres high by 3 metres wide

• Burning of stubble or grass on areas up to 0.2 hectares

• Use of fireworks, burn barrels, carbonizers, air curtain burners and similar equipment

The prohibition does not apply to Category 1 campfires.

The Southeast Fire Centre notes that Category 3 open fires have already been banned since May 30.

Fines for violating the ban range from $1,150 to $100,000, with possible jail time.

Causing a wildfire can lead to penalties up to $1 million and three years imprisonment.

To report a wildfire or unattended campfire, people can call *5555 on a cell phone, 1-800-663-5555 toll-free, or use the BC Wildfire app.