Wildfire Activity Continues Into September

VICTORIA - Despite shorter days and cooler temperatures, British Columbia is still experiencing significant fire activity with 250 new fire starts in the last week, Minister of Forests and Range Pat Bell said today.

"Just because children are heading back to school and summer is coming to an end doesn't mean the public should stop being extremely careful with open flame of any type", said Bell. "The fire danger rating still remains high to extreme for over 37 per cent of the province."

Complete campfire bans continue for those areas covered by the Kamloops and Cariboo fire centres. Campfire restrictions are in place for sections of the Coastal and Southeastern Fire Centres. The public is reminded to take note of the latest local information.

Backcountry restrictions are in effect in areas of the Cariboo, Coastal and Kamloops Fire Centres. Recreationalists are urged to use extreme caution in those places not subject to access bans, particularly with the commencement of hunting season. Call your local fire centre for more information.

"We can't let our guard down. Conditions can change quickly," said Bell. "So, be reminded that our enforcement officers will be out again this weekend issuing tickets to those not heeding bans or restrictions."

The 2009 wildfire season has been one of the most active and dangerous in recent memory, with 2,924 fires to date and 221,118 hectares burnt, compared to 2,314 fires and 230,080 hectares burnt by this date in 2003.

The public reports nearly half of all wildfires in B.C. Please continue to report smoke and flames by calling toll-free 1-800-663-5555 or *5555 on most cellular networks.

For the latest updates, visit [http://bcwildfire.ca].