Seven new wildfires started in the B.C. Peace

FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. – The B.C. Wildfire Service is asking residents to take precautions after seven wildfires started in the B.C. Peace.

B.C. Wildfire Service has responded to several incidents in the Peace River Region since Friday, including a wildfire north of Highway 29 and Moberly Lake. This fire is approximately 60 hectares in size and highly visible from the highway.  The Peace River Regional District says no structures are at risk from the fire at this time, but smoke may be visible from the community.

Of the seven new fires that have started since Friday, every single one is believed to have been caused by humans.

For a map of all the fires in the B.C. Peace, visit www.bcwildfire.ca

B.C. Wildfire Service urges the public and industry personnel members to exercise caution when conducting outdoor burning as conditions across the region indicate increased fire danger.

The weather forecast shows steadily climbing temperatures, clear skies and generally light winds through the weekend. 

#BCWildfire is responding to several incidents in the Peace River Region, including G70124 located N of #BCHwy29 & Moberly Lake. This fire is ~50 ha and highly visible. Conditions across the region indicate increased fire danger. Exercise extreme caution. https://t.co/I5vxm4PvqU pic.twitter.com/50pm7fgDWn

— BC Wildfire Service (@BCGovFireInfo) April 29, 2023

While there are currently no open fire bans or restrictions in the Prince George Fire Centre, anyone conducting an outdoor burn must adhere to the following precautions:

• 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

For more information regarding the Ventilation Index and Open Burning and Smoke Control Regulations, please visit: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/environment/air-land-water/air/air-pollution/smoke-burning/ventilation-index

Everyone in the province has a critical role in preventing wildfires. 

Human-caused fires are entirely preventable and divert critical resources away from naturally-caused fires. 

To report a wildfire, unattended campfire or open burning violation, please call 1-800-663-5555 toll-free or *5555 on a cellphone.