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By Michael Reeve

WILDFIRE SEASON 2024

BC Wildfire forced to suspend suppression efforts several times this year due to public interference

Aug 14, 2024 | 5:40 PM

KAMLOOPS — There are currently 61 active wildfires burning across the Kamloops Fire Centre, with two being denoted as ‘fires of note.’

Twenty-six of those fires are considered under control, thanks to the work of the BC Wildfire Service (BCWS). But unfortunately on Wednesday (Aug 14), the organization was forced to put out a plea to the public to stay clear from active fires as they have had to suspend suppression efforts on several occasions this summer.

“We are just taking the time to remind people to be really cautious and diligent about what they are doing when they are out and about and making sure they are giving our crews and resources lots of space when they are out and about near a wildfire,” said BCWS Fire Information Officer Taylor Wallace. “Things like flying drones over fires and making sure that if you are on boat on a lake if there are aircraft around as well as being in person on site or near a wildfire is dangerous. There are a number of activities that are related to causing safety concerns for our personnel.”

Whether boating in nearby lakes, or stopping along the side of the road to take a photo, disruptions slow the wildfire service’s ability to suppress fires and action them with proper resources.

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It was also noted that those caught interfering could face hefty legal consequences.

“Anyone that is found to be interrupting suppression efforts can be fined up to $100,000 and or there could be jail time associated with that,” said Wallace. “And a good reminder that does include drones and flying unmanned aerial vehicles as well.”