Prescribed burn planned for Seymour Arm area



SALMON ARM – Last fall, the BC Wildfire Service supported BC Timber Sales in conducting a prescribed burn covering 54 hectares east of Seymour Arm. While a majority of the work was completed, clean-up is required for a few pockets of unburnt fuel within the project area. Crews will be returning to the site to burn roughly 20 hectares to complete the project as conditions allow.

Key goals of this prescribed burn include:

  • helping to restore forest health and a properly functioning ecosystem
  • removing forest fuels to reduce the long-term risk of wildfire

Smoke may be visible from Seymour Arm and surrounding areas.

The exact timing of this burn will depend on weather and site conditions, but it could begin as early as Friday, March 27. Burning will proceed if conditions are suitable and allow for smoke dispersal during burn operations, though smoke may also linger in the following days.

The Cultural Burning and Prescribed Fire Youtube is an excellent resource to learn more about prescribed and cultural fire.

Fire is a normal and natural process in many of B.C.’s ecosystems. The BC Wildfire Service works regularly with a range of partners to undertake fuel management activities (including the use of controlled burns), to help reduce the severity of future wildfires and related threats to communities. These projects are carefully planned and only go ahead at the right times and under the right conditions to ensure community and practitioner safety.  

Visit the BC Wildfire Service Cultural and Prescribed Fire webpage and Prescribedfire.ca for more information.

Exposure to smoke can irritate eyes and respiratory tracts and worsen pre-existing lung and heart conditions. If your area is impacted by smoke:

  • Run portable air cleaners with windows and doors closed. Both commercial and home-made units (https://rb.gy/90uh5s) can be effective if operated properly
  • Reduce the length and intensity of outdoor activities
  • Manage pre-existing conditions and seek medical care if you have severe symptoms

Learn more about protecting health from smoke online: http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/prevention-public-health/wildfire-smoke

To report a wildfire, unattended campfire, or open burning violation, call 1 800 663-5555 tollfree or *5555 on a cell phone or through the BC Wildfire Service mobile app. For the latest information on current wildfire activity, burning restrictions, road closures and air-quality advisories, visit: http://www.bcwildfire.ca.

You can follow the latest wildfire news on:

Contact:

BC Timber Sales
Jeff Schochter
Jeffrey.Schochter@gov.bc.ca

Fire Information Officer
BC Wildfire Service
Kamloops Fire Centre
250-554-5965
BCWS.KFCInfo@gov.bc.ca

Connect with the Province of B.C. at www.gov.bc.ca/connect.