All open fires will be permitted throughout the Prince George Fire Centre's jurisdiction, due to a

decreased risk of wildfires.

The announcement was made Tuesday by the Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations.

"The rescinding of the open fire prohibition applies to 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," said Jillian Chimko, local Fire Information Officer. "Please check with civic authorities for any restrictions before lighting a fire."

The ministry clarified that regulations still applied to fire use in these settings. Campfires must not be larger than a half-metre wide by a half-metre tall. Anyone who lights a campfire must have a hand tool, such as a shovel, or at least eight litres of water available nearby to fully extinguish it.

Also, anyone lighting a Category 3 fire must first obtain a burn registration number by calling 1 888 797-1717 and must comply with all other legislation regarding this open burning category. A Category 3 fire is a fire that burns: material piled more than two metres in height or three metres in width; stubble or grass covering more than 2,000 square metres; or more than two piles of any size.

"Anyone who lights a fire must have sufficient personnel, water and tools on hand to stop the fire from escaping," Chimko said. "Never light a fire in windy conditions, never leave a fire unattended and make sure that the ashes are completely cold to the touch before leaving the area."

Report a wildfire or unattended campfire by calling 1 800 663-5555 toll-free or *5555 on a cellphone.

For the latest information on current wildfire activity, burning restrictions, road closures and air quality advisories, go to: http://www.bcwildfire.ca.