Regulations introduced last year to restrict the size and height of a campfire are now enforced and disobeying the rules could result in hefty fines or jail time.
The Ministry of Forests Lands and Natural Resource Operations warns that compliance and enforcement officers, as well as conservation officers will be on regular patrols to ensure campers are following campfire safety regulations, regardless of fire ratings.
The regulations state that campfires cannot be larger than 0.5 metres in height and 0.5 metres in diameter. A shovel must also be within reach as well as at least eight litres of water stored nearby. If a metal campfire ring is not available at the campsite a fire guard must be built by scraping down to the dirt and clearing away potentially flammable debris, such as twigs, leaves and needles.
Failure to comply with the rules can result in a $345 fine. The ministry also say an additional $345 fine can be levied if a campfire is lit during a camp fire ban.
According to the ministry anyone who causes a wildfire through arson or recklessness can also be fined up to $1 million or spend three years in prison and also be held responsible for all suppression costs incurred.
To report a wildfire or unattended campfire call *5555 on your cell or 1 800 663-5555.
