British Columbia officials are urging people to plan ahead and stay safe this long weekend, particularly as hot, dry conditions increase the risk of new wildfires.
The province said in a statement that people travelling or heading into nature this B.C. Day weekend should be aware of fire restrictions.
It said campfires are prohibited across most of southern B.C., while larger open burns are banned throughout most of the province.
Officials said ATV riders should make sure their vehicle has a spark arrestor to prevent sparks from starting fires. They said drivers should check their mufflers, keep grass clear of hot auto parts, and stay on dirt paths.
They also urge people to ensure cigarette butts are disposed of safely.
The province said people should report new fires on the B.C. Wildfire Service app or by calling 1-800-663-5555 (toll-free) or *5555 on a cellphone.
People who live in high-risk areas can make an emergency plan in case of an evacuation alert or order, and pre-register for Emergency Support Services at ess.gov.bc.ca.
The B.C. Wildfire Service said, as of Friday morning, there were 123 active wildfires across the province, including 48 listed as out of control.
It said hot and dry conditions are expected throughout the long weekend, especially in southeastern B.C., drying out fuels and increasing the likelihood of wildfire starts.
Evacuation orders and alerts remain in effect for thousands of properties across B.C. due to wildfires.
The Cariboo and Thompson-Nicola regional districts expanded evacuation orders on Friday for properties around Clinton, due to the Pear Lake wildfire that has burned more than 700 square kilometres.
The Squamish-Lillooet Regional District also expanded an evacuation order and alerts due to the Twin Two Creek wildfire near Lillooet Lake.
Hundreds more remain under evacuation order in the Boston Bar area of the Fraser Valley, where the Brunswick wildfire complex has burned more than 300 square kilometres.
Meanwhile, the province is warning of significant delays on the Coquihalla between Hope and Merritt throughout the long weekend.
It said a section of Highway 5 is undergoing major drainage construction, while a section of Highway 1 between Hope and Lytton remains closed due to wildfire.
The province said wildfire evacuations and increased holiday traffic are expected to contribute to delays, and drivers should make sure their vehicle is fuelled and carry plenty of food and water.
B.C. Ferries said this B.C. Day long weekend is the busiest weekend of the year for ferry travel, and said travellers with vehicles should expect sailing waits on major routes if they don’t book ahead of time.
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