http://bcwildfire.ca/hprScripts/WildfireNews/News.asp Ministry of Forests and Range: Wildfire Management Branch Copyright 2009, Province of British Columbia en-ca Tue, 30 Jul 2010 17:37:00 PST http://bcwildfire.ca/hprScripts/WildfireNews/DisplayArticle.asp?ID=1734
Limited action has been taken on this wildfire due to unsafe terrain for ground personnel and inoperable ground for heavy equipment. High temperatures and low relative humidities have contributed to an increase in fire behaviour this afternoon. Airtankers were brought in to lay retardant in an attempt to slow the spread of the fire and steer it towards some natural fireguards.

The lightning-caused fire was reported July 28, and has been monitored daily. Helicopters have been used to cool hot spots on the fire perimeter. Wildfire Management Branch personnel are monitoring the situation to ensure it does not pose a threat to people, communities or other identified values.

Resources from the Kamloops Fire Centre have responded to 15 lightning-caused fires since Wednesday. Due to drought-like conditions, lightning fires may be burning underground for weeks and become visible with daytime heating. The general public can be of assistance by reporting any suspected wildfires by calling *5555 on your cell phone or toll free 1-800-663-5555.

All open burning is currently prohibited within the Kamloops Fire Centre, including fireworks and burning barrels of any size or description. A campfire ban comes into effect Thursday at noon. This ban does not prohibit the use of portable campfire apparatus that are CSA or ULC approved, which the operator maintains with a flame no longer than 15 centimetres.

For the latest information on fire activity, bans and restrictions and current conditions, visit the Wildfire Management Branch website at www.bcwildfire.ca. For Facebook and Twitter updates, as well as details about evacuation orders and alerts, road conditions and air quality advisories, go to www.firesafebc.ca.
-30-
]]> Tue, 30 Jul 2010 17:36:00 PST http://bcwildfire.ca/hprScripts/WildfireNews/DisplayArticle.asp?ID=1733 is asking for the public's help in preventing any unnecessary person caused wildfires.
An extended period of dry and hot weather without any precipitation has dried forest fuels, and fuels are now much dryer than they were at this time last year. Our crews are reporting that wildfires are growing more quickly and require more resources to contain than even a week ago.

The current fire weather outlook shows increased potential for lightning within the next week for south-western B.C. It is anticipated that the lightning will not come with any
appreciable precipitation.

Our crews are still responding to unnecessary human caused fires attributed to arson, campfires and equipment use. We are asking the public's assistance to prevent these fires that are impacting our ability to respond to naturally occurring lightning fires and support the wildfires in
the interior of the province.

Please report any arson tips to the RCMP or to Crime Stoppers at 1.800.222.TIPS or at www.bccrimestoppers.com. Also, please do not hesitate to report fires. We need your help to get to these wildfires as quickly as we can when they are small.

To date there have been about 650 incidents that required our response in the Coastal Fire Centre. All these incidents were caused by human activity.
The Coastal Fire Centre appreciates the public's continued cooperation and efforts in fire prevention and reporting of wildfires.

To report a wildfire please call *5555 or 1-800-663-5555]]> Tue, 30 Jul 2010 12:18:00 PST http://bcwildfire.ca/hprScripts/WildfireNews/DisplayArticle.asp?ID=1732
Protecting life and property is the highest priority for crews working to manage these fires. All of the Cariboo Fire Centre's available resources are currently working in the region, including firefighters, helicopters and heavy equipment, with additional assistance from other parts of the province.

With high to extreme fire danger ratings and an increase in fire activity, all open burning, including campfires, is now prohibited within the Cariboo Fire Centre. As the risk of wildfires increases it is critical to prevent person caused fires, which detract resources away from naturally occurring fires caused by lightning.

The Cariboo Fire Centre advises the public to use extreme caution when driving on backcountry roads as they are very dusty and smoky due to active wildfires.

To report a wildfire or unattended campfire please call *5555 on your cell or toll-free 1-800-663-5555. For the latest information on fire activity, conditions and prohibitions, visit the Wildfire Management Branch website at www.bcwildfire.ca. For Facebook and Twitter updates, as well as details about evacuation orders and alerts, road conditions and air quality advisories, go to www.firesafebc.ca.
]]> Tue, 30 Jul 2010 11:33:00 PST http://bcwildfire.ca/hprScripts/WildfireNews/DisplayArticle.asp?ID=1731 The Jade wildfire in the Yalakom Valley is now estimated at 1200 hectares in size. It remains 10 per cent contained and 125 firefighters, 19 pieces of heavy equipment and 10 helicopters continue fire suppression efforts. Today, crews are constructing a fuel free break along the Shulaps to LaMare Road. Helicopters and firefighters will also patrol and mop-up hot spots outside existing guards. The Squamish Lillooet Regional District has issued an evacuation alert for the Yalakom Valley. A public information line has been established at 1-866-417-4132 for area residents to call for updated information. Media is asked to call Leslie Lloyd at 604-894-6371 ext. 230 or 1-800-298-7753.

The Mayson Lake wildfire, 22 kilometres northwest of Barriere, is now 130 hectares in size. Resources on site include 40 firefighters, 11 structural protection unit personnel, seven helicopters and 14 pieces of heavy equipment. Efforts are focused on the east flank closest to structures and a machine guard is being established on the southwest flank. An evacuation alert is in place for Electoral Area "E" and an evacuation order remains in effect for Electoral Area "O" on the east side of Bonaparte Lake. For more information, please contact the Thompson Nicola Regional District at 1-866-377-7188.

The Joe Rich wildfire located 18 kilometres northwest of Big White is now 100 per cent guarded and 85 per cent contained. It remains estimated at 10 hectares in size. Five firefighters patrolled overnight and 15 firefighters will mop up hot spots today.

The Barnhartvale wildfire, estimated at 53 hectares in size, is now 85 per cent contained and 100 per cent guarded. The evacuation alert was rescinded at 17:00 yesterday.

For the latest information on fire activity, bans and restrictions and current conditions, visit the Wildfire Management Branch website at www.bcwildfire.ca. For Facebook and Twitter updates, as well as details about evacuation orders and alerts, road conditions and air quality advisories, go to www.firesafebc.ca.
]]> Tue, 30 Jul 2010 11:30:00 PST http://bcwildfire.ca/hprScripts/WildfireNews/DisplayArticle.asp?ID=1730
Although they are keeping crews and aircraft very busy, most other fires in the region have remained small and do not currently pose a threat to communities or infrastructure. The Prince George Fire Centre is expecting warm temperatures and thundershowers each afternoon throughout the weekend and will be monitoring these weather patterns very closely in anticipation of more new fires. Smoke is visible in many parts of the fire centre due to increased fire activity in the Cariboo region.

Given the elevated fire risk in areas of the Prince George Fire Centre, the public is asked to do their part by being extremely careful with any sources of heat. Please discard cigarettes carefully and limit movement of ATVs and motorcycles through tall grass and sawdust piles.

It is also vital that the public abides by the campfire ban in effect for areas west of the Rochies, including the Vanderhoof, Prince George, Mackenzie, Fort St James, McBride and Valemount Forest Districts.

The Prince George Fire Centre's jurisdiction stretches from the Yukon and Northwest Territories in the north to Tweedsmuir Provincial Park, the Cottonwood River and Robson Valley in the south, and from the Alberta border west to the Skeena Mountains.
]]> Tue, 30 Jul 2010 09:37:00 PST http://bcwildfire.ca/hprScripts/WildfireNews/DisplayArticle.asp?ID=1729

Fire wardens and other officials will be patrolling the Southeast Fire Centre this weekend to ensure campfire safety and compliance as the forest and grasslands become drier and more susceptible to fire. These patrols will target high risk areas and ensure compliance with all other open burning restrictions within the Southeast.

Small, contained campfires, limited to 0.5 metres by 0.5 metres, are permitted and the public is reminded to have a hand tool or at least eight litres of water nearby to fully extinguish them. Other open burning restrictions, including burning barrels and fireworks, are in place.

Campers are reminded that failure to properly extinguish a campfire will result in a $345 fine. In addition, if their campfire escapes and causes a wildfire, they may be held liable for all resulting suppression costs and damages. As we enter the hotter, drier summer months when lightning storms are more frequent, it is critical that crews are not tied up responding to preventable human-caused fires.

Crews from the Southeast Fire Centre have responded to 111 wildfires since April 1, which together have burned 222 hectares.

The Southeast Fire Centre would like to remind the public that burning restrictions are in place across the centre. Although small, contained campfires - 0.5 metres by 0.5 metres - are permitted, the public is reminded to have hand tools or at least eight litres of water nearby to fully extinguish them. Burning barrels and fireworks are also restricted.

Almost half of all fires in B.C. are reported by the public. If you see smoke or flames, please call 1 800 663-5555 or dial *5555 on your cell phone. For further information, visit the B.C. Wildfire Management Branch website at www.bcwildfire.ca.

Contact:

Karlie Shaughnessy
Fire Information Officer
Southeast Fire Centre
(Office) 250.365.4014
(Cell) 250.304-8352

Erin Catherall
Fire Information Officer
Southeast Fire Centre
(Office) 250.365.4056
(Cell) 250.608-1755

]]> Tue, 30 Jul 2010 08:20:00 PST http://bcwildfire.ca/hprScripts/WildfireNews/DisplayArticle.asp?ID=1728
There are two fires currently burning near the Yukon border. One lightning-caused fire is currently estimated at around 700 hectares in size and has caused a highway closure between the junction of Highway 37 and 97 and Blue River. Burning off operations is planned along the highway either tonight or tomorrow. This will remove any unburned fuel between the wildfire and the highway in an effort to make the area safe for motorists.

The second fire near the Yukon border is a small fire four kilometres west of Lower Post. This small fire is being aggressively actioned by eight fire fighters. This fire is burning in a wetter area and the fire is not burning very aggressively at this time.

The one-hectare Decker Lake fire is now contained and is being mopped up by local contract fire-fighters.

Two modified response fires burning near Shesley River and south of the Telegraph Highway are burning more actively during this hot dry weather. Smoke from these fires is likely to be more visible to surrounding communities.

The Northwest Fire Centre is responsible for fire suppression and forest protection for an area that stretches from Burns Lake to the Queen Charlotte Islands and from Tweedsmuir Park to the Yukon border.

If you see flames, smoke, or an abandoned campfire, please call *5555 on a cell phone or 1-800-663-5555. For the latest information on fire activity, visit the Wildfire Management Branch website at www.bcwildfire.ca. For Facebook and Twitter updates, as well as details about evacuation orders and alerts, road conditions and air quality advisories, go to www.firesafebc.ca.
]]> Mon, 29 Jul 2010 19:04:00 PST http://bcwildfire.ca/hprScripts/WildfireNews/DisplayArticle.asp?ID=1727
The most visible of these fires is on the Joe Rich Forest Service Road between Kelowna and Big White. The fire is estimated at 10 hectares in size and is showing a slow rate of spread this morning. . The fire was reported shortly after two a.m. and the suspected cause is lightning. Resources on site include one forest officer, one initial attack crew, one dozer and one water tender. An additional 10 firefighters are on route to support the fire suppression efforts.

The fire burning southeast of Bonaparte Lake is now called the Mason Lake wildfire. The fire is now estimated at 110 hectares in size; this change is due to more accurate mapping late last night. Airtankers, including the Martin Mars, focused on structure protection on the east side of the wildfire yesterday. This was done by laying fire retardant to slow the fire's growth and then following up with the Martin Mars to provide cooling action by raising the relative humidity near the fire's edge.

A specialized Wildfire Management Branch Incident Management Team is commanding this fire today with 30 personnel, 6 helicopters, 11 structure protection unit personnel, and a variety of heavy equipment. High temperatures, low relative humidities and winds are anticipated in the area and will pose a challenge for resources again today. Efforts will be focusing on protecting access and egress routes on the southeast portion of the wildfire near the Jamieson Creek Forest Service Road.

An evacuation order remains in place for a one mile radius around Bonaparte Lake. Residents with health and safety concerns resulting from the fire can call the Thompson Nicola Regional District Information Line at1-866-377-7188.

The B.C. Forest Service is still assisting Kamloops Fire and Rescue with the Barnhartvale Wildfire. The fire remains at 53 hectares in size and will be actively patrolled today with 26 firefighters. The wildfire is 100 per cent guarded and 85 per cent contained. Crews will continue to reinforce the fireguard by laying hose and cooling hot spots 100 feet inside the guard.

The Evacuation Alert remains in place for residence in the area and will be re-evaluated after today's efforts on the fireline. For more information, please contact the Emergency Operations Centre at 250-828-3441.

The Jade Mountain Wildfire in the Yalakom Valley is still estimated at 1000 hectares in size. Aggressive fire behaviour was responsible for a flare up on the southwest flank of the wildfire yesterday afternoon. Resources on site today include 125 firefighters, five structure protection unit personnel, 11 helicopters and 19 pieces of heavy equipment.

The BC Forest Service continues to liaise with the Bridge River Indian Band and Squamish Lillooet Regional District. The Squamish Lillooet Regional District has issued an evacuation alert for the Yalakom Valley. A public information line has been established at 1-866-417-4132 for area residents to call for updated information. Media is asked to call Leslie Lloyd at 604-894-6371 ext. 230 or 1-800-298-7753.

Warm and dry conditions coupled with gusting winds have led to active wildfire behaviour across the region. Since yesterday, crews from the Kamloops Fire Centre have responded to 13 new wildfires of which nine were caused by lightning. Many many more fire reports are expected throughout the day as the daytime heating increases fire behaviour. Fire crews and resources are available to address these fires on a priority basis.

As the risk of wildfire increases and the Fire Centre responds to an increase in lightning-caused fires, it is critical that resources are not unnecessarily deployed to preventable wildfires caused by people.

]]> Mon, 29 Jul 2010 10:22:00 PST http://bcwildfire.ca/hprScripts/WildfireNews/DisplayArticle.asp?ID=1726
While most fires have remained small, some have been challenging and smoke from these fires may be visible throughout the Cariboo and surrounding areas. Airtankers and helicopters have been assisting firefighters by attacking fires from the air, slowing their spread and making access from the ground easier and safer.

A cluster of five fires near Pelican Lake, 75 kilometres west of Quesnel, has been estimated to cover 1,000 hectares. Significant smoke is visible to surrounding communities.

Several fires near Alexis Creek have prompted the Cariboo Regional District to issue an evacuation alert for residents living on Bayliff Road. The largest of these fires is currently estimated at 350 hectares.

Volatile activity at two wildfires south and west of Meldrum Creek, 15 kilometres west of Williams Lake, has resulted in an evacuation order for residents in the area. The largest of these fires is approximate 800 hectares in size.

Residents impacted by any of these fires can call the Cariboo Regional District Emergency Operations Centre at 250-392-4283 for information and assistance with evacuation alerts and orders.

Smoke from a fire near 140 Mile House, 30 kilometres south of Williams Lake, is very visible along Highway 97, but is not posing a threat communities or infrastructure.

Fire officials will be closely monitoring the weather over the coming days. A chance of afternoon thunderstorms is forecasted each day, and winds from these thunder cells can elevate fire activity. Temperatures are expected to remain hot and dry through the extended forecast.

To report a wildfire or unattended campfire please call *5555 on your cell or toll-free 1 800 663-5555. For the latest information on fire activity, conditions and prohibitions, visit the Wildfire Management Branch website at www.bcwildfire.ca. For Facebook and Twitter updates, as well as details about evacuation orders and alerts, road conditions and air quality advisories, go to www.firesafebc.ca.
]]> Mon, 29 Jul 2010 10:03:00 PST http://bcwildfire.ca/hprScripts/WildfireNews/DisplayArticle.asp?ID=1725
On Wednesday three helicopters worked on the fire bucketing the fire with water, and airtankers worked to surround the fire with retardant in order to slow the fire's growth. A total of 24 fire fighters also worked to contain the fire.

Fire officials will do an analysis of the fire today, and form a plan for managing the fire. This may involve protecting values at risk and letting other areas of the fire burn. One of the priorities will be to attempt to reopen Highway 37 and maintain traffic flow.

Over 29 fires have been ignited in the Northwest Fire Centre since Monday. The fire centre continues to respond to these new fires with initial attack crews to work to contain the fires at a small size. Prior to Monday, the fire centre had responded to 36 unwanted fires of which over 90 percent were contained at less than four hectares in size.

The Northwest Fire Centre is expecting more thunderstorms in the region again today with the potential for lightning to ignite additional wildfires. The public needs to exercise due diligence with all sources of heat as our resources are devoted to suppressing natural lightning caused fires.

The Northwest Fire Centre is responsible for fire suppression and forest protection for an area that stretches from Burns Lake to the Queen Charlotte Islands and from Tweedsmuir Park to the Yukon border.

If you see flames, smoke, or an abandoned campfire, please call *5555 on a cell phone or 1-800-663-5555. For the latest information on fire activity, visit the Wildfire Management Branch website at www.bcwildfire.ca. For Facebook and Twitter updates, as well as details about evacuation orders and alerts, road conditions and air quality advisories, go to www.firesafebc.ca.]]> Mon, 29 Jul 2010 07:59:00 PST http://bcwildfire.ca/hprScripts/WildfireNews/DisplayArticle.asp?ID=1724
Airtankers are dropping fire retardant to slow the fire's growth, focussing on the east flank of the fire, which is closest to homes. The fire has grown primarily to the north and south, away from homes. Fire suppression personnel are anticipating strong winds in the area this evening.

A specialized Incident Management Team is en route to the fire to direct suppression activities.

Residents with health and safety concerns resulting from the fire can call the Thompson Nicola Regional District at1-866-377-7188. Smoke from this fire is visible from Barriere and nearby communities, but the fire is not currently threatening the town.

Warm and dry conditions coupled with gusting winds have led to active wildfire behaviour across the region. The Kamloops Fire Centre has responded to seven new wildfires today. Four of today's fires have been caused by human activity.

As the risk of wildfire increases and the Fire Centre responds to an increase in lightning-caused fires, it is critical that resources are not unnecessarily deployed to preventable wildfires caused by people.

]]> Sun, 28 Jul 2010 18:01:00 PST http://bcwildfire.ca/hprScripts/WildfireNews/DisplayArticle.asp?ID=1723
Today, the Fire Centre is anticipating a heightened level of activity, as more thunderstorms are forecasted with low relative humidities and gusty winds. In order to detect these new fire starts quickly, the Cariboo Fire Centre has manned three look-outs, and is sending aircraft to look for new fire starts. Additional resources are readily available, if needed.

In addition to the new small fires, there remain two fires of note within the Cariboo Fire Centre's jurisdiction. The first, the Kluskus Fire, remains mapped at 460 hectares and is 100 percent contained. On site, 140 fire suppression personnel are working in conjunction with heavy equipment and helicopters, to cool any remaining hot spots within the fire's perimeter. This fire is not threatening any homes.

The second fire of note is located in south Tweedsmuir Park, and is mapped at 1700 hectares. This fire is in a modified response area, and is being allowed to burn in order to promote the Provincial Park's natural forest ecology. If the fire grows beyond pre-determined trigger points, established by the land manager, Forest Service staff are well positioned to action the fire. This fire is not threatening any communities

The Cariboo Fire Centre will continue to be busy with lightning caused fires. It is important that people do not add to this workload by causing preventable forest fires. As much of the region remains in an extreme fire danger rating, the fire centre urges the public to maintain extreme caution around all sources of heat. The public is also reminded that effective at noon, July 29, all open burning, including campfires and fireworks, will be prohibited across the Cariboo Fire Centre's jurisdiction, including Tweedsmuir Provincial Park, to help prevent human-caused wildfires and to protect public safety.
To report a wildfire or unattended campfire call *5555 on your cell phone, or 1-800-663-5555. For the latest information on fire activity, fire bans and current conditions, visit the Wildfire Management Branch website at www.bcwildfire.ca. For Facebook and Twitter updates, as well as details about evacuation orders and alerts, road conditions and air quality advisories, go to www.firesafebc.ca.

The Cariboo Fire Centre covers an area of about 10.3 million hectares, stretching from Clinton (Loon Lake) to the south, north to Cottonwood River just north of Quesnel, east to the western boundary of Wells Gray Provincial Park and west to the western boundary of Tweedsmuir Provincial Park.

]]> Sun, 28 Jul 2010 12:10:00 PST http://bcwildfire.ca/hprScripts/WildfireNews/DisplayArticle.asp?ID=1722
Overnight, 20 firefighters monitored fire behaviour and maintained fireguards. The BC Forest Service has 122 firefighters, five structure protection unit personnel, eight helicopters and 12 pieces of heavy equipment on site today. A total of 144 personnel are working on this wildfire.

The BC Forest Service continues to liaise with the Bridge River Indian Band and Squamish Lillooet Regional District. The Squamish Lillooet Regional District has issued an evacuation alert for the Yalakom Valley. A public information line has been established at 1-866-417-4132 for area residents to call for updated information. Media is asked to call Leslie Lloyd at 604-894-6371 ext. 230 or 1-800-298-7753.

For the latest information on fire activity, bans and restrictions and current conditions, visit the Wildfire Management Branch website at www.bcwildfire.ca. For Facebook and Twitter updates, as well as details about evacuation orders and alerts, road conditions and air quality advisories, go to www.firesafebc.ca.
-30-
]]> Sun, 28 Jul 2010 10:20:00 PST http://bcwildfire.ca/hprScripts/WildfireNews/DisplayArticle.asp?ID=1721
The second fire of note is burning west of the community of Decker Lake and is approximately one hectare. The resources working to contain this fire today include 20 fire fighters, two forest officers, heavy equipment, airtankers and two helicopters.

The Northwest Fire Centre is expecting more thunderstorms in the region again today with the potential for lightning to ignite additional wildfires. The public needs to exercise due diligence with all sources of heat as our resources are devoted to suppressing natural lightning caused fires.

The Northwest Fire Centre is responsible for fire suppression and forest protection for an area that stretches from Burns Lake to the Queen Charlotte Islands and from Tweedsmuir Park to the Yukon border.

If you see flames, smoke, or an abandoned campfire, please call *5555 on a cell phone or 1-800-663-5555. For the latest information on fire activity, visit the Wildfire Management Branch website at www.bcwildfire.ca. For Facebook and Twitter updates, as well as details about evacuation orders and alerts, road conditions and air quality advisories, go to www.firesafebc.ca.
]]> Sun, 28 Jul 2010 10:11:00 PST http://bcwildfire.ca/hprScripts/WildfireNews/DisplayArticle.asp?ID=1720
The fire, which is located in the Todd Road area of Barnhartvale, 8 kilometres east of Kamloops, is estimated at 50 hectares in size, and 80 per cent contained. The cause is under investigation.

Nine initial attack firefighters and two officers from the B.C. Forest Service worked overnight to build containment lines, assisting 26 members of Kamloops Fire Rescue. An additional 40 wildland fighters are on the fireline today.

Airtankers are dropping fire retardant to slow the fire's growth this morning, focusing on the west flank of the fire, which is closest to homes. Four helicopters and heavy equipment are working to cool hot spots within the fire perimeter and building containment lines.

A tactical evacuation took place last night for the Holman Road area. An evacuation alert remains in place for other residences in the area. Please contact the Emergency Operations Centre at 250-828-3441 for information.

All open burning is currently prohibited within the Kamloops Fire Centre, including fireworks and burning barrels of any size or description. A campfire ban comes into effect Thursday at noon. This ban does not prohibit the use of portable campfire apparatus that are CSA or ULC approved, which the operator maintains with a flame no longer than 15 centimetres.
]]> Sun, 28 Jul 2010 09:45:00 PST http://bcwildfire.ca/hprScripts/WildfireNews/DisplayArticle.asp?ID=1718
The Northwest Fire Centre is currently experiencing dry conditions and elevated fire hazard. To date the Northwest Fire Centre has responded to 40 fires, 32 of which have been caused by people.

Although campfires have been prohibited within the Nadina fire zone, the Bulkley fire zone and the old Kalum forest district, this ban does not prohibit campfires that are a half-metre high by a half-metre wide or smaller within the North Coast and Haida Gwaii forest districts. In these regions cooking stoves that use gas, propane or briquettes are also still allowed. People lighting a campfire must maintain a fireguard by removing flammable debris from the campfire area, and must have a hand tool or at least eight litres of water nearby to properly extinguish the fire.
The ban now covers the Northwest Fire Centre's entire jurisdiction. A map of the area is available at http://bcwildfire.ca/hprScripts/WildfireNews/Bans.asp.
Please ensure campfires are not lit or kept burning during windy conditions, that adequate tools, water and people are on hand to contain a fire and that it is fully extinguished before leaving the area.

Anyone found in violation of an open fire ban may be issued a ticket for $345. Should a wildfire occur as a result of recklessness, a person can be fined up to $1 million or spend three years in prison and be ordered to pay all fire fighting and associated costs.
The ban will be in place until September 1, 2010 or until the public is otherwise notified.

The Northwest Fire Centre is responsible for forest fire protection for the western portion of the northern interior forest region, and the northern portion of the coastal forest region. The area stretches from the Haida Gwaii to just west of Endako and from the Yukon border to Tweedsmuir Park.

To report a wildfire or unattended campfire please call *5555 on your cell or toll-free 1 800 663-5555. For the latest information on fire activity, conditions and prohibitions, visit the Wildfire Management Branch website at www.bcwildfire.ca. For Facebook and Twitter updates, as well as details about evacuation orders and alerts, road conditions and air quality advisories, go to www.firesafebc.ca.
]]> Sat, 27 Jul 2010 16:00:00 PST http://bcwildfire.ca/hprScripts/WildfireNews/DisplayArticle.asp?ID=1717
This ban applies to open fires of any size, including campfires, fires with a burn registration number and industrial burning, fireworks, tiki torches and burning barrels.

The ban does not apply to cooking stoves that use gas, propane or briquettes, or to portable campfire apparatus with a CSA or ULC rating using briquettes, liquid or gaseous fuel, as long as the flame is kept under 15 centimetres in length.

The ban covers the old Kalum forest district, Nadina fire zone and the Bulkley fire zone of the Northwest Fire Centre's jurisdiction. Details are available at http://bcwildfire.ca/hprScripts/WildfireNews/Bans.asp
Within this area, the ban covers all BC Parks, Crown and private lands, but does not apply within the boundaries of local governments that have forest fire prevention bylaws and are serviced by a fire department. Please check with civic authorities for any restrictions before lighting a fire.

Anyone found in violation of an open fire ban, including campfires, may be issued a ticket for $345. Should a wildfire occur as a result of carelessness, a person can be fined up to $1 million or spend three years in prison and be ordered to pay all firefighting and associated costs.

The ban will be in place until September 1, 2010 or until the public is otherwise notified.

This campfire prohibition affects the area bounded by the administrative areas of the old Kalum forest district Nadina fire zone and the Bulkley fire zone. This includes the areas surrounding the communities of Burns Lake, Houston, Smithers, Hazelton, Kispiox, Terrace and Kitimat.
To report a wildfire or unattended campfire please call *5555 on your cell or toll-free 1 800 663-5555.

For the latest information on fire activity, conditions and prohibitions, visit the Wildfire Management Branch website at www.bcwildfire.ca.

For Facebook and Twitter updates, as well as details about evacuation orders and alerts, road conditions and air quality advisories, go to www.firesafebc.ca
]]> Sat, 27 Jul 2010 10:00:00 PST http://bcwildfire.ca/hprScripts/WildfireNews/DisplayArticle.asp?ID=1716
Overnight, 11 firefighters monitored fire behaviour and re-established fireguards. The BC Forest Service has 100 firefighters, five structure protection unit personnel, eight helicopters and 10 pieces of heavy equipment on site today. A total of 130 personnel are working on this wildfire and a fire camp has been established.

With lightning in the forecast for the next 24 to 48 hours, the Ministry of Forests and Range urges the public to be extra vigilant in the forest so resources can be allocated to naturally occurring wildfires.

The BC Forest Service continues to liaise with the Bridge River Indian Band and Squamish Lillooet Regional District. The Squamish Lillooet Regional District has issued an evacuation alert for the Yalakom Valley. A public information line has been established at 1-866-417-4132 for area residents to call for updated information. Media is asked to call Leslie Lloyd at 604-894-6371 ext. 230 or 1-800-298-7753.

For the latest information on fire activity, bans and restrictions and current conditions, visit the Wildfire Management Branch website at www.bcwildfire.ca. For Facebook and Twitter updates, as well as details about evacuation orders and alerts, road conditions and air quality advisories, go to www.firesafebc.ca.
]]> Sat, 27 Jul 2010 08:51:00 PST http://bcwildfire.ca/hprScripts/WildfireNews/DisplayArticle.asp?ID=1714
Fires of any size, including campfires, fires with a burn registration number and industrial burning, fireworks, tiki torches and burning barrels will be prohibited in the Kamloops, Northwest, Cariboo and Prince George Fire Centres. This is in addition to the ban already in effect in the Coastal Fire Centre.

"Many people feel that campfires are part and parcel with camping," said Bell. "But there is a wide array of activities that you can take part in while enjoying B.C.'s outdoors. Go for a hike, build a sandcastle with your kids or swim in the river. There is so much to enjoy out there."

The public is urged to exercise extreme caution on forested land with any activity that could lead to a wildfire. Make sure to extinguish cigarettes safely and avoid driving ATVs and motorcycles through tall grass and undergrowth.

"If you ignore a campfire ban, you will be fined $345. If your recklessness causes a wildfire, you could be fined up to $1 million or spend three years in prison and be held responsible for fire suppression costs," said Bell. "Compliance and enforcement officers, including the RCMP, will be out in full force during the August long weekend."

Also, as lightning becomes more common in the hot, dry summer months, it is crucial that crews are available to respond to naturally occurring wildfires. Person-caused wildfires divert critical resources away from managing these lightning-caused fires.]]> Fri, 26 Jul 2010 15:41:00 PST http://bcwildfire.ca/hprScripts/WildfireNews/DisplayArticle.asp?ID=1713 This ban applies to open fires of any size, including campfires, fires with a burn registration number and industrial burning, fireworks, tiki torches and burning barrels.
The ban does not apply to cooking stoves that use gas, propane or briquettes, or to portable campfire apparatus with a CSA or ULC rating using briquettes, liquid or gaseous fuel, as long as the flame is kept under 15 centimetres in length.
The ban covers the Cariboo Fire Centre's entire jurisdiction, and, in addition, Tweedsmuir Park. A map of the area is available at http://bcwildfire.ca/ftp/!Project/WildfireNews/7262010~115210_CFC%20Tweeds.jpg
Within this area, the ban covers all BC Parks, Crown and private lands, but does not apply within the boundaries of local governments that have forest fire prevention bylaws and are serviced by a fire department. Please check with civic authorities for any restrictions before lighting a fire.
Anyone found in violation of an open fire ban, including campfires, may be issued a ticket for $345. Should a wildfire occur as a result of recklessness, a person can be fined up to $1 million or spend three years in prison and be ordered to pay all firefighting and associated costs.
The ban will be in place until the public is otherwise notified.
The Cariboo Fire Centre covers an area of about 10.3 million hectares, stretching from Clinton (Loon Lake) to the south, north to Cottonwood River just north of Quesnel, east to the western boundary of Wells Gray Provincial Park and west to the western boundary of Tweedsmuir Provincial Park (see attached map).
To report a wildfire or unattended campfire please call *5555 on your cell or toll-free 1 800 663-5555.

For the latest information on fire activity, conditions and prohibitions, visit the Wildfire Management Branch website at www.bcwildfire.ca.

For Facebook and Twitter updates, as well as details about evacuation orders and alerts, road conditions and air quality advisories, go to www.firesafebc.ca
]]> Fri, 26 Jul 2010 12:01:00 PST http://bcwildfire.ca/hprScripts/WildfireNews/DisplayArticle.asp?ID=1712 The fire danger rating is currently high to extreme across the Kamloops Fire Centre making the risk of a campfire sparking a wildfire a concern to forest officials. Resources from the Kamloops Fire Centre have responded to 55 campfire related incidents so far this season. This takes away valuable resources that are needed to respond to naturally occurring wildfires.

This ban applies to open fires of any size, including campfires, fires with a burn registration number and industrial burning, fireworks, tiki torches and burning barrels.

The ban does not apply to cooking stoves that use gas, propane or briquettes, or to portable campfire apparatus with a CSA or ULC rating using briquettes, liquid or gaseous fuel, as long as the flame is kept under 15 centimetres in length.

The ban covers all of the Kamloops Fire Centre's jurisdiction. Within this area, the ban covers all BC Parks, Crown and private lands, but does not apply within the boundaries of local governments that have forest fire prevention bylaws and are serviced by a fire department. Please check with civic authorities for any restrictions before lighting a fire.

Anyone found in violation of an open fire ban, including campfires, may be issued a ticket for $345. Should a wildfire occur as a result of recklessness, a person can be fined up to $1 million or spend three years in prison and be ordered to pay all firefighting and associated costs.

The ban will be in place until September 30, 2010, or until the public is otherwise notified.

The Kamloops Fire Centre covers an area from the northern border of Wells Gray Park, north of Blue River to the US border in the south, and from the Bridge River Glacier west of Goldbridge to the Monashee Mountains east of Lumby.

To report a wildfire or unattended campfire please call *5555 on your cell or toll-free 1 800 663-5555.

For the latest information on fire activity, conditions and prohibitions, visit the Wildfire Management Branch website at www.bcwildfire.ca.

For Facebook and Twitter updates, as well as details about evacuation orders and alerts, road conditions and air quality advisories, go to www.firesafebc.ca

]]> Fri, 26 Jul 2010 11:53:00 PST http://bcwildfire.ca/hprScripts/WildfireNews/DisplayArticle.asp?ID=1711
This prohibition is necessary due to dry forest fuels and a forecast for a prolonged period withou This ban applies to open fires of any size, including campfires, fires with a burn registration number and industrial burning, fireworks, tiki torches and burning barrels.
The ban does not apply to cooking stoves that use gas, propane or briquettes, or to portable campfire apparatus with a CSA or ULC rating using briquettes, liquid or gaseous fuel, that are not capable of producing a flame longer than 15 centimetres. Portable campfire apparatus that do not meet these conditions are prohibited.
The ban affects the area covered by the Forest Districts Mackenzie, Prince George, Vanderhoof, Fort St. James, McBride and Valemount. A map of the area is available at (INSERT LINK TO MAP SHOWING AREA AFFECTED).
Within this area, the ban covers all BC Parks, Crown and private lands, but does not apply within the boundaries of local governments that have forest fire prevention bylaws and are serviced by a fire department. Please check with civic authorities for any restrictions before lighting a fire.
Anyone found in violation of an open fire ban, including campfires, may be issued a ticket for $345. Should a wildfire occur as a result of recklessness, a person can be fined up to $1 million or spend three years in prison and be ordered to pay all firefighting and associated costs.
The ban will be in place until until the public is otherwise notified.
The Prince George Fire Centre's jurisdiction stretches from the Yukon and Northwest Territories to Tweedsmuir Provincial Park, the Cottonwood River and Robson Valley in the south, and from the Alberta border west to the Skeena Mountains.

To report a wildfire or unattended campfire please call *5555 on your cell or toll-free 1 800 663-5555.

For the latest information on fire activity, conditions and prohibitions, visit the Wildfire Management Branch website at www.bcwildfire.ca.

For Facebook and Twitter updates, as well as details about evacuation orders and alerts, road conditions and air quality advisories, go to www.firesafebc.ca

-30-

Contact:
Joyce Poulin
Fire Information Officer
Prince George Fire Centre
Office: 250-565-6990
Cell: 250-961-4176
]]> Fri, 26 Jul 2010 11:46:00 PST http://bcwildfire.ca/hprScripts/WildfireNews/DisplayArticle.asp?ID=1710
Crews, helicopters and heavy equipment will work to reinforce the guard so the Jade Wildfire does not move into the Shulap and LaRochelle water drainages. An infrared scanner has also been utilized to map hotspots to assist ground crews in locating and extinguishing all fire outside of the guards.

Overnight, a seventeen-person sustained action crew monitored the controlled burn and re-established fireguards. The BC Forest Service has 100 firefighters, five structure protection unit personnel, eight helicopters and 10 pieces of heavy equipment on site today. A total of 129 personnel are working on this wildfire and more resources continue to be added.

The low relative humidity and high temperatures today will continue to challenge fire control efforts. The wildfire is now estimated at 670 hectares.

The BC Forest Service is continuing to liaise with the Bridge River Indian Band and Squamish Lillooet Regional District. The Squamish Lillooet Regional District has issued an evacuation alert for the Yalakom Valley. A public information line has been established at 1-866-417-4132 for area residents to call for updated information. Media is asked to call Leslie Lloyd at 604-894-6371 ext. 230 or 1-800-298-7753.

For the latest information on fire activity, bans and restrictions and current conditions, visit the Wildfire Management Branch website at www.bcwildfire.ca. For Facebook and Twitter updates, as well as details about evacuation orders and alerts, road conditions and air quality advisories, go to www.firesafebc.ca.
]]> Fri, 26 Jul 2010 10:51:00 PST http://bcwildfire.ca/hprScripts/WildfireNews/DisplayArticle.asp?ID=1709
Today, the BC Forest Service is continuing to reinforce and build additional machine guard along the north flank of the fire. Helicopters will focus on bucketing spot fires outside of the fireguard and firefighters will establish hoselays and work on extinguishing spot fires adjacent to the guard.

Overnight, a twenty-person sustained action crew monitored fire behaviour and burned off small accumulations of fuel along the northeast boundary in order bolster the existing fireguard. The BC Forest Service will have 100 firefighters, 14 structure protection unit personnel, eight helicopters and 10 pieces of heavy equipment on site today. More resources will continue to be added to the fire as needed.

Crews are prepared for extreme fire behaviour as high temperatures and low humidity are in the forecast for this afternoon.

The type one investigation team has concluded that the cause of the Jade Wildfire was a lightning strike on July 21, 2010. The Kamloops Fire Centre urges the public to be extra vigilant with recreational activities so resources can be allocated to naturally-caused wildfires rather than human-caused wildfires.

The Squamish Lillooet Regional District has issued an evacuation alert for the Yalakom Valley. A public information line has been established at 1-866-417-4132 for area residents to call for updated information. Media is asked to call Leslie Lloyd at 604-894-6371 ext. 230 or 1-800-298-7753.

For the latest information on fire activity, bans and restrictions and current conditions, visit the Wildfire Management Branch website at www.bcwildfire.ca. For Facebook and Twitter updates, as well as details about evacuation orders and alerts, road conditions and air quality advisories, go to www.firesafebc.ca.
]]> Thu, 25 Jul 2010 08:56:00 PST http://bcwildfire.ca/hprScripts/WildfireNews/DisplayArticle.asp?ID=1708
Wildfire activity was moderate yesterday and mostly on the ground; therefore, the size is still estimated at 600 hectares. Today will bring higher temperatures and a lower relative humidity Today, the BC Forest Service is continuing to construct machine guard on the northeast flank and will complete a contingency line on the southwest side. A retardant pit has been completed that the helicopters will use now use for bucketing retardant on hotspots and line construction in areas that are inaccessible to ground crews and equipment. A Rappel Crew has been brought in to work on small, inaccessible hot spots outside of the existing guardlines.

Overnight, a ten-person sustained action crew monitored fire behaviour. The BC Forest Service will have 80 firefighters, 14 structure protection unit personnel, seven helicopters and five pieces of heavy equipment on site today. More resources will continue to be added to the fire as needed.

The Squamish Lillooet Regional District has issued an evacuation alert for the Yalakom Valley. A public information line has been established at 1-866-417-4132 for area residents to call for updated information. Media is asked to call Leslie Lloyd at 604-894-6371 ext. 230 or 1-800-298-7753.

Fire activity is anticipated to increase today due to high temperatures and variable winds. The Kamloops Fire Centre urges the public to be extra vigilant with recreational activities so resources can be allocated to naturally-caused wildfires rather than human-caused wildfires.

For the latest information on fire activity, bans and restrictions and current conditions, visit the Wildfire Management Branch website at www.bcwildfire.ca. For Facebook and Twitter updates, as well as details about evacuation orders and alerts, road conditions and air quality advisories, go to www.firesafebc.ca.
]]> Wed, 24 Jul 2010 10:28:00 PST http://bcwildfire.ca/hprScripts/WildfireNews/DisplayArticle.asp?ID=1707
The Jade Wildfire is estimated at 600 hectares and is located 30 kilometres northwest of Lillooet. The BC Forest Service held an information meeting with the Yalakom Valley residents last night and will continue to liaise with this community and the Squamish Lillooet Regional District at another meeting this evening.

A twenty-person sustained action crew worked overnight. The BC Forest Service will have 80 firefighters, six helicopters and five pieces of heavy equipment on site today. With the increase of resources, a fire camp will be established early next week.

The Squamish Lillooet Regional District has issued an evacuation alert for the Yalakom Valley. A public information line has been established at 1-866-417-4132 for area residents to call for updated information. Media is asked to call Leslie Lloyd at 604-894-6371 ext. 230 or 1-800-298-7753.

Fire activity is anticipated to increase today due to high temperatures and variable winds. The Kamloops Fire Centre urges the public to be extra vigilant with recreational activities so resources can be allocated to naturally-caused wildfires rather than human-caused wildfires.
]]> Tue, 23 Jul 2010 09:30:00 PST