The BC Wildfire Service is urging caution when doing any outdoor burning given current and predicted weather conditions.
The Peace region and the area around Vanderhoof in the south are experiencing below-normal snowpack levels and some areas of the Prince George Fire Centre are already snow-free.
"As the snow melts, it won't take long for the grass to dry out and become flammable, especially in windy conditions," the BCWS said in a press release.
In addition to watching for changing weather and following all burning regulations, those conducting an open burn are urged to take the following precautions:
- Ensure that enough resources are on hand to control the fire and prevent it from escaping.
- Do not burn during windy conditions. Weather conditions can change quickly and the wind may carry embers to other combustible material and start new fires. (Wind was a key factor that affected wildfire activity in the spring of 2016.)
- 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.
- Consider conducting smaller burns around the perimeter of the main fire site before lighting the main fire. This will create a fuel break and help prevent the fire from spreading beyond its intended size.
- Never leave a fire unattended.
- Make sure that your fire is completely extinguished and the ashes are cold to the touch before you leave the area for any length of time.
The BCWS also strongly recommends that anyone who conducted a category two or category three open burn within the last year should check the burn site to ensure that the fire was completely extinguished.
Anyone planning to do any large-scale industrial burning or conduct a grass burn larger than 0.2 hectares (category three fires) must obtain a burn registration number ahead of time (at no charge) by calling 1-888-797-1717.
Burn registration numbers are entered in the Open Fire Tracking System, which allows the BC Wildfire Service to track open burning activity throughout B.C.: http://ow.ly/Wdip306frpN.
Before conducting any burn, check with the local fire department, municipality and regional district to find out if any open burning restrictions or bylaws are in effect.
