Fire ban issued for Fort St. John

The city of Fort St. John is following the Prince George Fire Centre and issuing a ban on medium and large open fires.

Fire Chief Fred Burrows says the ban will mimic that of the region’s except that it won’t include a ban on fireworks at this time.

Under the regional restrictions, the prohibition includes burning piles of garbage or slash that are more than half a metre in height or diameter. Residents also can not burn any grass or stubble or use fireworks.

Barbeques or other outdoor stoves are allowed as long as they use gas, propane, or briquettes. Campfires are also allowed as long as they are under the above size restrictions.

Under the Fire Prevention bylaw, Burrows says residents who break the ban within city limits could face a $100 fine.

Anyone who spots an uncontrolled fire within the city should call 9-1-1. Outside of the city, residents are asked to report a wildfire or unattended campfire by dialing *5555 on their cell phones or by calling 1-800-663-5555.