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Outdoor-burning caution issued following first 2021 blaze in Prince George Fire Centre

Weekend wildfire near Hudson’s Hope deemed under control
Pile burning
Outdoor burning. | File photo

The BC Wildfire Service is warning local residents and industry professionals to take precautions and follow all regulations when it comes to outdoor burning.

On Sunday (April 11), the Prince George Fire Centre experienced its first blaze of 2021 near Hudson’s Hope, deemed to be human caused after a campfire was lit and got away in heavy wind.

Known as the Farrell Creek Junction Wildfire, it’s since grown to 4.5 hectares in size, but officials say the flames are now under control as a unit crew remains on site.

With the snow on its last melt and a drier trend in the forecast, regional fire information officers are encouraging everyone to be cautious when conducting outdoor burning.

“As the temperature increases, the grass cures and dries, becoming extremely flammable, especially in windy conditions,” a statement reads from the Prince George Fire Centre this afternoon (April 12).

“It is the responsibility of the individual to ensure that burning is done in a safe manner in accordance with regulations. Before lighting any fire, 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.”

Currently, there are no open-burning bans in place for northern B.C.’s designated region as the Prince George Fire Centre stretches from the city to the Yukon border.

Those wishing to burn a Category 3 fire, which is any blaze larger than two metres high and three metres wide, must obtain a burn registration number via the BC Wildfire Service.

Category 2 open fires, such as campfires, don’t require a burn registration number.

The BC Wildfire Service provides the following tips for outdoor burning:

  • Ensure that 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
  • Create an appropriately sized fireguard around the planned fire site by clearing away twigs, grass, leaves and other combustible material, right down to the mineral soil
  • 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

The public is encouraged to report wildfires, unattended campfires or open-burning violations by calling toll-free to 1-800-663-5555 or *5555 on a cell phone.

For more information, you can visit the BC Wildfire Service website.