New wildfires contained

Photo: file photo

Two new wildfires within the Kamloops Fire Centre appear to be under control.

Fire information officer Marla Catherall says the largest of the two, the Meander Hills fire grew to six hectares in size before it was officially declared held.

Held means the fire is not expected to grow beyond its current boundaries.

Catherall says a three-person crew is patrolling the site for hot spots.

A second small spot fire near Lytton is also considered held.

While activity is light across the Kamloops Fire Centre, Catherall says officials will be on alert with dry lightning forecast for the region over the next few days.

Catherall also reminds people heading into the backcountry a Category 2 and 3 open fire ban is in effect.

It's not a total campfire ban. Campfires a half-metre high by a half-metre wide are still OK, as are camp stoves that use gas, propane or briquettes.