Off limits for public safety

Photo: Canadian Press

Armed Forces in Willimas Lake

The BC Wildfire Service wants to remind the public that access to Williams Lake, Watson Lake, Lac La Hache and Horse Lake has been restricted since July 14.

This area restriction order was needed to keep people off these lakes and assist with wildfire suppression efforts.

Aircrafts such as airtankers or helicopters, need plenty of room to pick up water from nearby lakes to help put out wildfires.

Recreational boaters or people using other watercraft who try to get a close-up look at these aircraft present a serious safety risk for air crews and anyone else in the area.

Firefighting aircraft take water out of  the four lakes listed above, to support fire suppression operations.

The rain in parts of the Cariboo Fire Centre over the past few days has helped decrease fire behaviour to a degree. However, the weather forecast is calling for a return to dry and warm conditions similar to what's been experienced in the past few weeks, which is expected to increase fire activity.

To report a wildfire or open burning violation, please call 1 800 663-5555 or *5555 on a cellphone. For up-to-date information on current wildfire activity, burning restrictions, road closures and air quality advisories, call 1 888 3-FOREST or visit www.bcwildfire.ca