BC Government News Release: Planning for travel, being prepared this long weekend

Details from this BC Government news release:

Residents and long-weekend travellers are encouraged to plan, be prepared and stay safe this Victoria Day long weekend as fire prohibitions take effect in parts of BC.

Most new wildfires at this time of year are preventable. People are asked to take precautions with any fire use, stay up to date on current wildfire activity, check for road closures, evacuation alerts and orders, and pay attention to weather conditions.

Know the campfire restrictions wherever you are

Category 2 and 3 open fire prohibitions are in place throughout the Cariboo Fire Centre, Coastal Fire Centre, Kamloops Fire Centre and parts of the Prince George Fire Centre and Northwest Fire Centre. Effective Friday, May 15, 2026, noon, the Category 1 campfire prohibition will be rescinded throughout the Coastal Fire Centre.

People planning to have campfires should do so safely.

• Follow all local prohibitions.
• Avoid having a campfire when it’s windy.
• Choose a proper fire pit or make a ring of rocks at least three metres from trees, shrubs, structures and debris.
• Do not leave a campfire unattended at any amount time.

Fire restrictions in all regions will be updated as conditions change. People should check with local authorities and visit the BC Wildfire Service website or app for restrictions before lighting a fire.

The BC Wildfire Service mobile app allows people to check the current wildfire situation, road conditions, evacuation information and weather forecasts, and to report new wildfires with photos. Wildfires can also be reported by calling *5555 on a cellphone or 1-800-663-5555 toll-free.

As of May 14, 2026, there are 36 active wildfires burning in BC. Of those, nine are considered out of control.

FireSmart your home before you head out

Proven FireSmart tips can help protect homes and properties in urban and rural areas:

• Remove dry leaves and debris from around your property.
• Move propane tanks and other flammables at least 10 metres from structures.
• Keep grass cut short and water trees, shrubs and plants, following local water restrictions.

Plan for drought conditions

B.C. continues to receive below-average precipitation for this time of year, which is having a lasting impact on water levels. There is potential for prolonged drought conditions in 2026, which may increase water-scarcity risks in some communities. People are encouraged to take steps to use water more efficiently and plan accordingly.

Ahead of the drought season, drinking water suppliers should consider potential water scarcity in preparing and updating emergency response and contingency plans, a regulatory requirement.

Know before you go on the road

Higher-than-average traffic volumes are expected on routes throughout the province this long weekend. Tips for a safe trip include:

• Allow extra time to reach your destination.
• Make sure your vehicle’s fuel or charge is at least half full, check oil, washer fluid, lights and tires, including the spare.
• Pack food and water for passengers and pets.
• Plan breaks at rest areas.
• Watch for motorcyclists and share the road with cyclists and other users.
• Obey posted speed limits and drive with caution, especially in mountain passes where conditions can change quickly.
• Check DriveBC before travel to ensure the most up-to-date travel conditions: https://drivebc.ca

Safety outdoors

For people venturing into the backcountry, it is important to remember the three Ts: trip planning, training and taking the essentials. AdventureSmart programs and tools help people stay safe outdoors by encouraging people to obtain the knowledge, skills and equipment necessary to enjoy outdoor activities and being mindful that safety is a shared responsibility.