(Image Credit: BC Wildfire Service)

By Elora McCormack

Williams Lake Burns

Prescribed burns planned within City of Williams Lake

Mar 28, 2026 | 12:00 PM

WILLIAMS LAKE, B.C. — The BC Wildfire Service (BCWS) is working with the City of Williams Lake to conduct five prescribed burns within city limits to reduce wildfire risks.

The BCWS said burns could begin as early as this Sunday (March 29) and it could continue periodically until April 17, depending on weather conditions.

“The prescribed burns will take place on approximately 24 hectares of land in the Stampede Park Grounds, Dairy Fields, Lake City Secondary School Municipal Park, Patrick Reid Park and Gibbon Street Municipal Park,” said the BCWS, in a statement.

“Ignitions will only proceed if conditions are safe, with favorable weather and atmospheric venting allowing smoke to clear quickly.”

Smoke and flames will be visible within the City of Williams Lake and in surrounding areas as crews ignite ground fuels within pre-established boundaries.

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Burning activity may impact vehicle and pedestrian traffic in the area while work is ongoing, the BCWS added.

“While burning is underway, traffic control will be on-site to ensure the safety of public and firefighters, short delays may occur,” the BCWS statement said. “Some public trails will be restricted, signage will be placed on the trails as needed.”

It notes there will be personnel on site after the burn to ensure the fire is fully extinguished and will remain until there is no risk of the fire spreading.

The BCWS said these burns aim to reduce the risk of wildfires in the area, restore ecosystem health and strengthen collaboration between the Williams Lake Fire Department, the City of Williams Lake and the Cariboo Fire Centre.