Despite a blanket campfire ban taking effect across B.C. on Friday, it appears many people just aren’t getting the message.
The Chilliwack River Valley Fire Department says it issued several fines over the weekend, after the ban was seemingly ignored by multiple groups of people.
In addition to fines, the department says “numerous fires” were also extinguished.
“Due to the increase in dry fuels and prolonged high temperatures throughout B.C., a province-wide campfire prohibition took effect July 12, at 12 p.m.,” the CRVFD wrote on Facebook.
“Despite all the Radio, TV, Social Media posts, and the signage people are still not getting the message.”
Fire crews are urging people to “respect the restrictions and keep our communities safe,” amid increased concern about wildfire starts around the province.
B.C. has been experiencing hot and dry conditions, after a heatwave brought elevated temperatures to many parts of the province.
According to the BC Wildfire Service, there are almost 150 wildfires burning in the province as of Monday.
A small wildfire east of Chilliwack, northwest of Waleach Lake, forced the closure of part of Highway 1 toward Hope to start the week.
The province’s campfire ban prohibits campfires of any size in every region of the province, with the exception of Haida Gwaii.
“Campfire prohibitions are being enacted to help prevent human-caused wildfires and to protect public safety,” the BC Wildfire Service explains.
Anyone found violating the ban may be issued a ticket for $1,150, required to pay an administrative penalty of up to $10,000 or, if convicted in court, fined up to $100,000 and possibly sentenced to one year in jail.
-With files from Charles Brockman