Fire Centre lifts ban after cool, wet weather

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• Campfire ban lifted in Merritt area
• Campfire ban issued for Kamloops Fire Centre including Merritt
• Warm, wet weather prompts flood warnings across B.C.
• Campfires permitted in Kamloops Fire Centre
• Kamloops Fire Centre urges caution
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The Kamloops Fire Centre, which includes the Merritt Fire Zone, announced Monday the lifting of a fire ban that was originally scheduled to end on Oct. 31.

"All open fires will be permitted within the Kamloops Fire Centre due to decreased risk of wildfires," Fire Information Officer Kevin Skrepnek said in a release.

Wet and cold weather have helped dampen the area that was extremely dry from low rainfall and warm temperatures that lasted until mid-October.

The lift to the prohibition means people can now burn material higher or wider than half a metre. Stubble and grass burning is also permitted, as well as fireworks and burning barrels of any size.

Those looking to burn large fires are required to contact the Ministry of Environment's Waste Management Act and open burning smoke control regulations.

Some fires may also require a burn registration number, which can be attained by calling 1-888-797-1717.

The Fire Centre advises people follow these tips before burning:

• keep the fires away from trees, buildings and other combustible materials

• don't burn when it is windy

• ensure there is an adequate number of people with water and hand tools to prevent the fire from spreading

• don't leave a fire unattended.

Each person is responsible to ensure the burning is conducted safety.

Individuals responsible for a fire escaping the confines of the burn and damaging the surrounding area may be liable to repay the costs of managing the blaze and for any destruction it may have caused.

All BC Parks, Crown and private land is included in the rescinding. However, municipal boundaries aren't included and individuals should contact their municipality to ensure they are allowed to burn.

To report a wildfire or unattended burning, call *5555 on a cellphone or 1-800-663-5555 on a landline.