Given the current and predicted weather conditions within the Southeast Fire Centre, the BC Wildfire Service is encouraging members of the public and industry personnel to exercise caution when conducting any outdoor burning during periods of elevated winds.

The weather forecast continues to call for a drying trend this week along with elevated winds for the Southeast Fire Centre.

As the temperature increases, the grass cures and dries, making it extremely flammable, especially in windy conditions.

There are currently no open burning prohibitions in effect within the Southeast Fire Centre. However, it is the responsibility of the individual to ensure that burning is done in a safe manner in accordance with regulations.

Before lighting any fire, it is advised to monitor the upcoming weather forecast and check with your local governments to see if any local burning restrictions are in place.

Anyone conducting an outdoor burn must adhere to the following precautions:

• Never burn in windy conditions. Weather conditions can change quickly, and the wind may carry embers to other combustible material and start new fires;
• Ensure that adequate resources are on hand to control the fire and stop it from spreading;
• Create an appropriately sized fireguard around the planned fire site by clearing away twigs, grass, leaves and other combustible material, right down to the mineral soil;
• Never leave a fire unattended;
• Make sure that any fire is completely extinguished, and the ashes are cold to the touch before leaving the area for any length of time.

Category 3 burn registration holders are encouraged to check on piles that were burned throughout the winter to ensure they are fully extinguished.

Anyone wishing to light a Category 3 open fire must obtain a burn registration number ahead of time by calling 1-888-797-1717. A burn registration number is not required to light a Category 2 open fire.

For more information regarding the Ventilation Index and Open Burning and Smoke Control Regulations.

Everyone is encouraged to follow the FireSmart principles and ensure that the land on which they live and play on is protected against wildfires.

To report a wildfire, unattended campfire or open burning violation, call 1-800-663-5555 toll-free or *5555 on a cellphone.

For the latest information on current wildfire activity, burning restrictions, road closures and air quality advisories.

Lead image: With a couple of large grass fires already in the books in the region, along with this huge prescribed burn north of Kimberley last Saturday that captured the attention of all who saw the rapid rise of the smoke plume and its spread eastward, fire season has arrived. This image is of the prescribed burn smoke plume is from the Wardner Bull River Road. Ian Cobb/e-KNOW photo

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