BC Wildfire Service urging caution as crews battle 4 wildfires in drier than normal conditions

Due to drier than normal conditions, there is an increase in wildfire activity within the Kamloops Fire Centre.

The BC Wildfire Service is reminding everyone to exercise caution as wildfires can start and spread quickly.

There are four fires currently classified as out of control within the Kamloops Fire Centre, two of which are considered fires of note.

The Allie Lake fire, located 55 kilometres northwest of Kamloops, is estimated at 1,600 hectares. The BC Wildfire Service is responding with 73 firefighters, four helicopters, air tanker support and six pieces of heavy equipment.

The Xusum Creek fire is about 35 km west of Lillooet and is currently estimated at 400 hectares. The BC Wildfire Service is responding with 64 firefighters, three pieces of heavy equipment, three helicopters and air tanker support.

The BC Wildfire Service urges the public to please pay particular attention to the fire danger rating in your region and adjust your activity and weekend plans accordingly. Category 2 and Category 3 burning is currently prohibited in areas of the fire centre below 1,200-metre elevation.

Anyone found in contravention of an open burning prohibition may be issued a violation ticket for $1,150, required to pay an administrative penalty of $10,000 or, if convicted in court, fined up to $100,000 and/or sentenced to one year in jail.

While campfires are still allowed, please ensure your campfire is completely out before leaving it. Campfires must be no larger than 0.5 metres high or 0.5 metre wide.

Anyone who lights a campfire is legally responsible for making sure it doesn't escape. They could be held accountable for damages and fire suppression costs if their negligence results in a wildfire.