The Southeast Fire Centre has released a cautionary warning on outdoor fires as a wildfire risk has been placed on the region.
The Kootenays have experienced unseasonably mild temperatures this winter and spring-like conditions combined with low relative humidity have increased wildfire risk as grounds continue to be snow-free.
“Almost all fires at this time of the year are caused by people and are therefore preventable,” said Fire Information Officer Jordan Turner in a release.
Precautions such as avoiding lighting fires in windy conditions, never leaving fires unattended, ensuring complete extinguishing of fires before leaving the area and creating a one meter fireguard by clearing away twigs, grass and leaves have been recommended.
Tickets of $345 or a fine of $100,000 following a court conviction may be issued to those who fail to comply with open-fire prohibitions.
To report a wildfire or unattended campfire, call 1 800 663-5555 toll-free
or *5555 on a cellphone. Information on wildfire activity, burning restrictions, road closures and air quality advisories can be found on bcwildfire.ca