The little bits of rain we received this week might have dampened a few summer spirits in the Lower Mainland, but they were a godsend in places where they lowered the forest wildfire risk levels.
Where the risks were reduced at all, the respite is likely to be temporary.
Hot weather – and increasing wildfire risks with it – are expected to return by the weekend.
Indeed, fire officials expect that areas in which the wildfire risk levels have been “high” will likely join the “extreme” classification before long.
Don’t let this week’s glitch fool you, the expectations are still for an unusually dry summer. With that in mind, and the propensity for British Columbians to get out and enjoy the natural beauty that surrounds us, the protectors of the province’s forests and wilderness are asking everyone to be careful, and to be vigilant. That’s not a plea only to local residents planning to get out into the wilds, but also to the thousands who flock to this province every weekend and through the week.
Whether you live here and take advantage of the natural amenities in your own backyard, or if you’re dropping by from elsewhere for some fun and relaxation in the great – and we really mean GREAT – outdoors, take care that it isn’t ruined for future hikers and boaters and nature enthusiasts. It doesn’t take a great deal of carelessness to spark a huge wildfire. We’re seeing evidence of that in West Kelowna and in other parts of the province where it’s not just beauty and wildlife that are being destroyed, but thousands of people’s homes have been put in jeopardy, as well. If you see smoke while you’re out there, do not hesitate to call B.C.’s Wildfire Management Branch at 1-800-663-5555 (or *5555 from a cell phone).
And try not to create any of that smoke yourself. Our nature depends on you.
– Guest editorial from the Langley Advance
