With the first day of fall comes the end of the southern B.C.’s campfire ban.
Effective as of noon on Friday, campfires are once again allowed throughout the Kamloops, Southeast and Cariboo Fire Centres.
A return to more seasonal weather conditions and recent precipitation has reduced the wildfire risk in these areas.
The BC Wildfire Service reminds the public that category two and three open fires, which are fires larger than 0.5 by 0.5 metres, remain prohibited.
The following is still prohibited in the Southeast Fire Centre, but are once again allowed in the Kamloops and Cariboo Fire Centres:
- Sky lanterns
- Binary exploding targets
- Air curtain burners
- Fireworks (including firecrackers)
- Burning barrels
- Burning cages of any size or description.
The use of tiki torches and chimineas are once again allowed in all three fire centres as of Friday.
People wishing to light a campfire must have ready access to eight litres of water or a shovel during the entire time the campfire is lit.
They also must completely extinguish the campfire and the ashes must be cold to the touch before they leave the area for any length of time.
Some municipalities, like the City of Kelowna, still prohibit campfires within city limits, so be sure to check with your local authorities if you're unsure about your specific area.
For more information on the current burning rules, visit the Government of B.C. website.
