As of noon on Sept. 21, Category 2 open fires are allowed throughout the Cariboo Fire Centre (CFC) due to a decreased wildfire risk in the region.
Category 3 open fires remain prohibited.
Category 2 fires are fires that burn material in piles smaller than two metres high and three metres wide, or stubble or grass over an area smaller than 2,000 square metres.
Precautions
• Ensure enough people, water and tools are on hand to control the fire and to prevent it from escaping.
• Do not burn in windy conditions. Weather can change quickly and the wind may carry embers to other combustible material and start new fires.
• Create a fireguard of at least one metre around the planned fire site by clearing away twigs, grass, leaves and other combustible material.
Anyone who lights, fuels or makes use of a Category 2 open fire must comply with the Environmental Management Act and Open Burning Smoke Control Regulation. The act requires individuals to check local venting conditions prior to ignition. Local venting conditions can be found by visiting www.bcairquality.ca or calling 1-888-281-2992.
A burn registration number is not required for a Category 2 open fire.
To report a wildfire, abandoned campfire or open burning violation, call 1-800-663-5555 toll-free or *5555 on a cell phone.
For up-to-date information on current wildfire activity and open burning restrictions, visit: www.bcwildfire.ca or call 1-888-3-FOREST (336-7378).