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Public warned to be careful as warm, dry and windy conditions increase fire risk

An extreme fire warning sign is shown along Highway 97 toward Fort Nelson outside the Charlie Lake Fire Hall near Fort St. John, B.C., on Monday, May 13, 2024. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Jesse Boily

Nearly two dozen active wildfires are burning across BC, as the provincial government warns that a combination of warm, dry conditions and strong winds would raise the fire risk in parts of the province.

A statement from the Forests Ministry earlier said the wildfire service was urging people to postpone any open burning until the windy conditions pass, and to use extra care for any backcountry camping.

Forests Minister Ravi Parmar said weather over the next several days “could set the stage for dangerous wildfire conditions across the province.”

He said this time of year carries the highest risk of wildfires caused by human activity, most of which are “entirely preventable.”

Open burning prohibitions are expected to take effect in the coming weeks.

The five fires south of Dawson Creek and the Fish Creek Wildfire north of Fort St. John are all thought to be human caused.

With Files from The Canadian Press