Dozens of wildfires in Alberta sparked by abandoned campfires – Canada News

Photo: Alberta Wildfire

Several wildfires in Alberta over the May long weekend were caused by abandoned campfires.

It’s something we hopefully won’t see here in the B.C. Interior this year.

The wildfire service in Alberta reports its crews were called out to 85 fires over the May long weekend. The majority of the blazes were sparked by abandoned campfires.

Our crews responded to 85 wildfires over the May long weekend. The majority of them were caused by abandoned campfires. Don’t be part of the problem! And remember, leaving your fire unattended could net you a $600 violation ticket. #ABWildfire pic.twitter.com/I6TQyDv8wS

— Alberta Wildfire (@AlbertaWildfire) May 29, 2022

In a social media post Alberta Wildfire said, “don’t be part of the problem!”. It also warned that leaving a fire unattended could result in a $600 violation ticket.

Several wildfires in that province in recent days have also started due to people working outside with equipment that can cause sparks or friction.

Alberta Wildfire notes that dry grass can catch easily and burn quickly.

“Use caution when working outdoors! Last year, 67 per cent of wildfires were human-caused,” said the post.

Here in B.C., the fine for leaving a campfire unattended is $1,150. If a wildfire results, those responsible could be ordered to pay all firefighting and associated costs.