Image: Bear Creek wildfire / May 15, 2024 / BCWS

By Fraser Valley Today Staff

BC Wildfires

Wildfires near Chilliwack lead to words of caution as the long weekend arrives

May 17, 2024 | 8:35 AM

CHILLIWACK — As the May long weekend arrives and the urge to enjoy the recreational opportunities of British Columbia’s backcountry grows, the threat of wildfires is generating concern.

B.C. has already seen evacuations in the Fort Nelson area of northeastern B.C. and evacuation alerts have also been issued for other areas already this year. The early start to the wildfire season has led to a call for anyone travelling through forested areas, to be extra careful.

A small fire broke out Thursday (May 16) northeast of Chilliwack near Laidlaw. The BC Wildfire Service (BCWS) was able to quickly bring the fire under control. The fire has been classified as human-caused.

Another wildfire along the eastern shore of Harrison Lake is designated as being held by the BCWS. The fire was spotted Tuesday and named the Bear Creek wildfire. One Initial Attack crew and one Unit Crew are working the fire, which has burned 8.2 hectares.

Image: Bear Creek wildfire / May 15, 2024 / BCWS

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In a news release, the Ministry of Forests says most new wildfires are preventable at this time of the year. It’s asking people to use caution and take steps to be more prepared over the holiday weekend.

Throughout the province, people are encouraged to stay up to date on current wildfire activity and check for road closures, evacuation alerts and orders, weather conditions and follow instructions from local governments or First Nations. Several open-burning prohibitions are also in place around the province and are updated as conditions change.

While campfires are allowed at campsites in B.C. at this time, most regions of the province have banned open burning of grass or stubble and piles exceeding two metres in height and three metres in width.

In addition, drivers on routes throughout the province are asked to keep an eye out for a forest fire. People are asked to report any wildfires to either *5555 on a cellphone or 1 800 663-5555 toll-free. Users of the newly improved BC Wildfire Service app can also report new wildfires and submit photos, which helps operational decision-making.

The app also provides information on the current wildfire situation, road conditions, evacuation information and weather forecasts. Users can also report new wildfires and submit photos, which helps inform BC Wildfire Service operational decision-making.

Those who plan to spend their long weekend preparing their yard for summer should consider some firesmart tips to safeguard their properties. They include clearing dry leaves and debris from around your property, moving propane tanks and other flammables at least 10 metres from structures and watering trees, shrubs and plants in adherence with water restrictions.

Many garden centres in communities around the province can help people choose more fire-resistant plants and help people create a safer landscape around their homes and neighbourhoods.