Practise proper fire safety

While it has been a rainy July so far in the Okanagan, rising temperatures mean that responsible fire use is important as we head into the heat season.

BC Wildfire Service reminds campers and hikers to take the proper measures when heading into the backcountry this summer.

They also remind people heading into the Kamloops Fire Centre that some burning restrictions are in place.

If campfires are permitted by the BC Wildfire Service and local authorities, clear the radius surrounding your pit free from grass, twigs, leaves, and other dry fuels. As well, ensure your campfire is a good distance from hanging branches and surrounding brush, BC Wildfire Service says. 

Never leave a campfire unattended. Doing so for any length of time could lead to costly repercussions.

When extinguishing a campfire, use water to drown all the embers until the hissing stops. Smothering the fire with sand or dirt should be a method only used as a last resort, as fire can stay hot for long periods of time beneath these materials and resurface in windy conditions.

For more information, visit their website.

Photo: Contributed