SMITHERS – Effective at 12 p.m. (PDT) on Wednesday Aug. 9, 2023, the Area Restriction Order that was established for the vicinity of the Nilkitkwa FSR around wildfires R31581 and R31391 and located between the Babine River Corridor Park and the Nilkitkwa River will be rescinded.
Firefighting personnel no longer need to restrict public access on an ongoing basis to operate efficiently and safely in that area. However, Area Restrictions or road closures may be implemented at any time in areas with active wildfires or areas that have been recently impacted by wildfires. For the most current information, please visit the Bans and Restrictions section of the BC Wildfire Service website and check the Skeena Stikine Resource District website regarding potential road closures.
The BC Wildfire Service reminds the public that R31581 and R31391 are active worksites, and they should exercise caution at all times while travelling in the area. Even if an Area Restriction has been rescinded, officials still have the authority under the Wildfire Act and its regulations to order anyone to leave the area.
Members of the public should be aware that significant safety hazards may be present in areas impacted by wildfire. Trees that have been damaged by fire might be unstable and could fall down. Ash pits can be hard to detect and can remain hot long after the flames have died down.
To report a wildfire, unattended campfire or open burning violation, call 1-800-663-5555 toll-free or *5555 on a cell phone or through the BC Wildfire Service mobile app.
Follow the latest wildfire news:
Contact:
Northwest Fire Centre Information Team
BC Wildfire Service
BCWS.NorthwestInformationOfficer@gov.bc.ca
250 876-6844