Photo: Contributed

The BC Wildfire Service is reminding the public to be more diligent after several abandoned campfires were discovered in the Cariboo over the past two weeks.

Anyone lighting a campfire must fully extinguish it and ensure the ashes are cold to the touch before leaving the site for any length of time. Failure to do so could result in a hefty fine.

Temperatures in the Cariboo are expected to cool over the next few days, but little rain is anticipated, and gusty winds are in the forecast, which could blow sparks into the forest.

Campfires are currently allowed in the Cariboo Fire Centre, but larger Category 2 and 3 open fires remain prohibited.

Anyone found in contravention of an open fire prohibition could be issued a ticket for $1,150, required to pay an administrative penalty of $10,000 or, if convicted in court, fined up to $100,000 and/or sentenced to one year in jail. If the campfire causes a wildfire, the violator may be ordered to pay all firefighting and associated costs.

To report an abandoned campfire, wildfire or open burning violation, call 1-800-663-5555 or *5555 on a cellphone.