It was a busy weekend of putting out illegal campfires and handing out fines for the B.C. Conservation Officer Service.
Conservation officers conducted campfire ban patrols over the weekend of July 25 across several regions in B.C.
“Unfortunately, numerous illegal fires were discovered,” the service said on social media Monday.
Nineteen violation tickets were issued, totalling $21,850 in fines.
For those planning a camping trip this summer, the Conservation Officer Service advises checking the BC Wildfire Service website for the latest fire restrictions and prohibitions in a given area.
As of July 24, Category 1,2 and 3 fires are prohibited in the Cariboo, Kamloops and Southeast fire centres. Campfires are allowed in the Northwest and Prince George fire centres, as well as some parts of the Coastal Fire Centre. Category 2 and 3 fires are prohibited in certain parts of the Prince George Fire Centre.
These restrictions can change on short notice, so it’s best to consult the province’s website on fire prohibitions before lighting one.
“Claiming you didn’t know about the campfire ban is not an acceptable excuse,” the Conservation Officer Service said. “Protect our forests, communities, and wildlife by staying informed and following all fire restrictions.”