Be prepared for B.C. Day long weekend

East Kootenay residents are gearing up for the B.C. Day long weekend, and the Province is reminding everyone about safety and planning.

Wildfires and heavier-than-usual traffic is expected this weekend and it may affect travel plans.

People are encouraged to check conditions before heading out, prepare their homes and communities, and follow all safety guidelines.

Campfire Restrictions

All open burning, including campfires, is prohibited throughout most of southern B.C.

The Southeast Fire Centre have Category 1, 2 and 3 open fire prohibitions in place.

Category 2 and 3 open fire prohibitions are in effect in the Northwest Fire Centre and parts of the Coastal Fire Centre and Prince George Fire Centre.

Fire restrictions in all regions will be updated as conditions change. Check online before starting a fire.

Preventing human-caused wildfires

People in areas where campfires are permitted should take precautions, such as keeping the fire small, avoid having a campfire when it’s windy, using a proper fire pit or making a ring of rocks around the fire, having water and a shovel ready, and making sure the area around the campfire is clear from trees, shrubs, structures and debris.

Do not leave a campfire unattended for any amount of time and make sure it is completely out, including checking that ashes are cool before leaving or going to sleep.

People who ride all-terrain vehicles in forests must have a spark arrestor on their vehicle, as it stops sparks from starting fires.

Always check mufflers, keep grass clear from hot auto parts, stay on dirt paths, and ensure cigarette butts are disposed of safely.

People are asked to report a fire right away. Approximately 40 per cent of new fires are reported by the public.

More than 6,000 reports of wildfires have been made on the BC Wildfire Service app and through the call centre in 2026.

Use the app to send photos and location, or call 1-800-663-5555 (toll-free) or *5555 on a cellphone.

Wildfires are burning throughout B.C. including the East Kootenay in Kimberley.

To check the latest wildfires update, visit the BC Wildfire Service.

Be prepared for wildfire effects

People living in an area at high risk for wildfires should be prepared.

• Check emergency plan and make sure everyone in the family knows what to do in case of an evacuation alert or order.
• Pre-register for Emergency Support Services through the BC Services Card app or the website: https://ess.gov.bc.ca/
• Pack grab-and-go bags for each member of the household, including pets. Bags should have medications, important papers, phone chargers, water, food and clothes. Keep bags at home, at work and in the car.
• Stay informed by checking with local government, First Nation or EmergencyInfoBC for the latest emergency information.
• If directed to evacuate, follow all instructions from local officials.

Protect your home

Use FireSmart tips to keep homes safe.

• Clear dry leaves and sticks from around the house.
• Keep propane barbecues and fuel at least 10 metres away from the house.
• Keep grass short (shorter than 10 centimetres is recommended) and trim trees and shrubs.
• Ensure the gutters are clean.
• Close doors and windows when fire danger is high.
• Use less water and choose plants that need little water.
• Check your home or tenant insurance to make sure it covers wildfire damage.

Save water during dry times

Prolonged dry conditions are taking a toll on water levels throughout B.C., with drought expected to continue through the summer.

Some communities may face increased water scarcity risks as a result. People are encouraged to be water wise and follow local water restrictions.

Small changes make a big difference when people do it together. Water suppliers should continue to monitor the BC Drought Information Portal and ensure their emergency response and contingency plans account for potential water shortages.

Check air quality

Wildfire smoke can travel far from fires and stay in the air for days. People should protect themselves if there is smoke in the area. Check the air quality warnings before going outside. Sign up to get alerts about poor air quality.

People can protect themselves from smoke by doing the following:

• Stay indoors and keep doors and windows closed.
• Take it easy and avoid hard exercise outside.
• Use or build a portable air cleaner or air filter in homes.
• Go to libraries, shopping centres or community centres if homes get too smoky. Public spaces tend to have cleaner and cooler indoor air.
• Consider wearing a respirator or other type of face mask when going outdoors. A well-fitted N95/KN95/K494 respirator offers the best protection.

People with asthma, heart problems or lung disease need to be extra careful during smoky days. Pregnant people, babies, young children and older adults should also take extra precautions.

Check air quality in your area here.

Stay safe in water

B.C.’s waters are great places to cool off on hot days. To stay safe in the water, wear a life-jacket, don’t swim or boat if drinking and bring a first-aid kit.

Some beaches have warnings about bacteria or algae blooms during warm months. These can make people and pets sick. Always check for advisories before swimming and keep pets out of the water if there’s a warning in place.

Drive safely during the long weekend

Higher-than-average traffic volumes are expected provincewide. Travellers should plan and check road conditions before heading out. Here is how to stay safe:

• Leave early to allow plenty of time.
• Make sure the vehicle’s fuel or charge is at least half full, and check oil, washer fluid, lights and tires, including the spare.
• Pack food and water for everyone in your car, including pets.
• Plan breaks at rest areas.
• Watch for motorcyclists and share the road with cyclists and other users.
• Obey posted speed limits and drive with caution, especially in mountain passes where conditions can change quickly.
• Check DriveBC before travelling for the most up-to-date travel conditions: https://drivebc.ca

Going into the wilderness

People going camping or hiking, especially in the wilderness/backcountry, are asked to plan.

Follow the three Ts: trip planning, training and taking essentials. To get checklists and help plan a trip, visit: https://www.adventuresmart.ca/