Just a few short weeks ago, fire danger conditions in the East Kootenay were classified between LOW and VERY LOW.
This week, however, that rating is now HIGH, and EXTREME in some locales in our area.
The BC Wildfire Service decide yesterday to be proactive, with the growing threat of wildfires, to impose a ban on all campfires beginning this Friday at 1 p.m. Mountain time and until further notice.
That now means no Category 1 fires, including fire pits.
That’s in addition to Category 2 or 3 open burning allowed, as well, with those restrictions also put in place in recent weeks.
Anyone caught ignoring the bans is facing some stiff penalties starting at a fine of $1,150 all the way up to fines $100,000 and one year in jail – even more, potentially, if you’re found guilty of starting a wildfire.
The BCWS is encouraging the public to call if they see someone breaking the bans at either 1-800-663-5555 or *5555 on your cell phone.
Those two same numbers can be used, too, if you happen to see a fire in your travels.
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