The Kamloops Fire Center announced effective at noon on Monday, Aug. 26, that campfires would be permitted throughout the Kamloops Fire Centre, but this does not necessarily apply within the boundaries of local governments, such as Barriere.
District of Barriere Fire Chief Al Kirkwood says campfires within the municipality will only be permitted in designated areas. He notes the campfire ban will be continued at the Fall Fair grounds for the Labour Day Weekend.
Anyone lighting a campfire within the District of Barriere, can only do so in a designated area, and must follow B.C.’s campfire regulations:
* The campfire must not exceed the allowed size of a half-metre wide by a half-metre high.
* Flammable material (such a twigs and pine needles) must be removed from around the campfire area and this fuel-free area must be maintained while the campfire is burning.
* A shovel or at least eight litres of water must be on site to properly extinguish the fire.
* Never leave a campfire unattended.
* The ashes must be cool to the touch before you leave the area.
Category 2 and 3 open fires remain prohibited for the entire Kamloops Fire Centre. This prohibition includes all open fires larger than a half-metre high by a half-metre wide, fires with a burn registration number, industrial burning, fireworks, sky lanterns and burning barrels.
Anyone found in violation of an open fire ban may be issued a ticket for up to $345. If that fire leads to a wildfire, the person(s) responsible may be fined up to $1 million, spend up to three years in prison and be held accountable for associated firefighting costs.