Campfire ban rescinded in southeastern B.C.

The province has lifted a campfire ban for southeastern B.C. after some cooler, rainy weather passed through the region.

That means as of noon on Friday, people in places like Trail, Nelson, and Cranbrook will once again be able to light small campfires.

“The combination of current and future forecasts, recent precipitation, and improved overnight recoveries has reduced the need to prohibit campfires in the Southeast,” the BC Wildfire Service’s website states.

Related Stories: 

• Campers fined for illegal fires amid B.C. wildfire crisis

• B.C. long weekend fire bans, prominent wildfires

• $9k in campfire ban tickets issued by B.C. conservation officers over weekend

Those wishing to light a campfire must follow some rules. These include ensuring flammable debris is cleared from the area, tending to the fire at all times, and having at least eight litres of water available to extinguish the fire if needed. Additionally, the campfire cannot be more than 0.5 metres wide by 0.5 metres high.

“Although fire danger ratings have dropped due to recent rainfall and cooler temperatures the public is reminded to still exercise caution,” the wildfire service stated.

People are also being reminded to check for any other local restrictions, and to “assess conditions before lighting any fire.”

The region remains under Category 2 and 3 burning restrictions.

There are still numerous areas of the province that remain under a campfire ban, including in the Lower Mainland, Vancouver Island, and Interior.