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Caution is need with campfires

Fire danger rating extreme in parts of Cariboo Fire Centre

Cariboo Fire Centre (CFC) and Wildfire Management Branch (WMB) report the fire danger rating is extreme for Middle Lake, Riske Creek and Tatla Lake in the Chilcotin, as well as the Likely region.

The fire danger rating is forecast to continue to rise this week throughout the entire Cariboo-Chilcotin region due to warm, dry weather and low relative humidity.

There is also a good possibility of lightning storms on the weekend.

As of July 24, there have been a total of 65 wildfires in the CFC so far this season, 50 person-caused and 15 lightning-caused, burning 1,071 hectares.

The Chilcotin zone has accounted for 26 of the person-caused fires, while the Central Cariboo/Williams Lake and Horsefly/Likely zones have had 14 person-caused fires.

The CFC reminds the public there is an open burning prohibition in place for the entire Cariboo-Chilcotin region, banning any backyard and industrial waste, slash or grass fires. The CFC also urges the public to be vigilant with any type of fire use, including campfires and fireworks, and to properly and safely extinguish cigarettes.

Wildfires can also be sparked by industrial and recreational machinery in these types of conditions.

To report a wildfire or unattended campfire, call 1-800-663-5555 or *5555 on your cellphone. For more information on open fire restrictions or for updates on current wildfire activity, visit www.bcwildfire.ca.



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