Ignored fire ban and evac

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Stranded hikers have been fined more than $1,200 for starting an illegal campfire in Tweedsmuir Provincial Park.

The two hikers were ignoring a campfire ban and an evacuation order at the park near Bella Coola.

They were rescued by helicopter Tuesday after activating an emergency beacon.

“These hikers’ blatant disregard for park closures resulted in the diversion of valuable resources and assets ... which would have otherwise been used in fire suppression efforts,” RCMP spokesperson Staff Sgt. Annie Linteau said Thursday.

BC Parks staff extinguished the campfire, and the hikers were fined $1,233.

Linteau noted that had the campfire caused a wildfire, they could have been liable for fire suppression costs, jail time and a fine of up to $1 million.

– with files from CTV Vancouver