In a press release shared with CICK on April 4th: The BC Wildfire Service (BCWS) is now into the 2022 wildfire season as of April 1 and expecting temperatures to rise as we move through the month. The Northwest Fire Centre (NWFC) is reminding registered holders of Category 3 permits to ensure all piles burned over winter are completely extinguished.

A Category 3 open fire is defined as:

• Any fire larger than 2 metres high by 3 metres wide,
• 3 or more concurrently burning piles no larger than 2 metres high by 3 metres wide,
• One or more windrows,
• Stubble or grass burning over an area greater than 0.2 hectares.

Large piles have the potential to burn deep into the ground and continue to smoulder until spring. With warming temperatures and right weather conditions these fires can change from a smouldering condition to open flame and spread very quickly. This could pose a threat if a holdover fire becomes active when weather conditions are not favourable for burning.

As we transition to warmer and drier weather patterns, burning conditions will become more hazardous. Lighting a fire in windy conditions can cause a grass fire to spread very quickly and should be avoided. Local winds are often strongest in the afternoon and just as the sun is going down.

There are currently no open burning prohibitions in effect within the Northwest Fire Centre; however, BCWS staff will monitor the weather and fuels conditions very closely and could implement a fire prohibition within 48-72 hrs of the decision. Category 2 & 3 open fires (backyard burning and industrial burning) may be prohibited once an area is snow free. An open fire prohibition typically remains in place until the fire danger has decreased to an acceptable level as determined by NWFC staff.

As a reminder and to prevent human caused fires, it is the responsibility of the individual to ensure that burning is done in a safe manner and in accordance with regulations. Piles must only be lit when the venting index is favourable; 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.

If a wildfire occurs as a result of your burning, you may be found responsible for the government’s fire control costs and any related damages to Crown resources. In addition, there are administrative penalties of up to $100,000 that may be levied for failing to comply with your obligations under the Wildfire Act and Regulations.

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

• Ensure adequate resources are on hand to control the fire and stop it from spreading
• Never burn in windy conditions. Weather conditions can change quickly, and the wind may carry embers to other combustible material and start new fires
• 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

To report a wildfire or open burning violation, call 1 800-663-5555 toll free or *5555 on a cell phone. For the latest information on current wildfire activity, burning restrictions, road closures and air quality advisories, visit: bcwildfire.ca