As 129 active wildfires burn across B.C., residents and travellers are urged to prepare evacuation plans and check fire restrictions before the long weekend. Understanding these risks and taking precautions can help protect families, homes and communities.
By Harnaik Singh Rathor | July 30, 2026
British Columbia is facing significant wildfire activity heading into the B.C. Day long weekend, with 129 active fires burning across the province and 50 classified as out of control as of late July. Residents and visitors are being asked to prioritize safety and planning, as open fire prohibitions are now in effect throughout much of the province, and travel routes may be affected by both increased traffic and wildfire impacts.
For those living in high-risk wildfire areas, preparation is essential. The Province recommends creating a family emergency plan, pre-registering for Emergency Support Services through the BC Services Card app, and assembling grab-and-go bags for each household member—including pets. These bags should contain medications, important documents, phone chargers, water, food and clothing. Keeping bags at home, at work and in vehicles ensures readiness if evacuation becomes necessary. Staying informed through local government, First Nations or EmergencyInfoBC provides critical updates about alerts and evacuation orders.
Home protection requires year-round attention but becomes especially urgent during fire season. FireSmart principles—such as clearing dry leaves and branches, maintaining grass shorter than 10 centimetres, trimming trees and shrubs, and keeping propane barbecues at least 10 metres from structures—significantly reduce vulnerability. Residents should also review their home or tenant insurance to ensure wildfire damage coverage is adequate and gutters are clean to prevent ember accumulation.
Preventing human-caused wildfires protects entire communities. Since approximately 40 per cent of new fires are reported by the public, early detection saves lives and resources. The BC Wildfire Service app allows residents to report fires with photos and GPS location; alternatively, calling 1-800-663-5555 toll-free or *5555 on cellphones connects people directly to fire centre staff. If campfires are permitted in your area, keep fires small, avoid windy conditions, create a rock ring, clear surrounding vegetation, maintain water and a shovel nearby, and never leave fires unattended. All-terrain vehicle riders must equip vehicles with spark arrestors and avoid hot surfaces near dry grass.
Wildfire smoke presents invisible but serious health risks, particularly for vulnerable populations including people with asthma, heart or lung disease, pregnant individuals, babies, young children and older adults. When smoke is present, staying indoors with doors and windows closed, avoiding strenuous outdoor exercise, using portable air cleaners, and wearing well-fitted N95/KN95/K494 respirators when venturing outside provide protection. Public spaces like libraries and shopping centres typically offer cleaner indoor air during heavy smoke events.
Travellers should check DriveBC before departing for real-time road conditions, leave early to avoid congestion, ensure vehicles are fuelled to at least half-tank with functioning lights and tires, and pack food and water for all occupants and pets. Those venturing into backcountry or wilderness areas are encouraged to follow the three Ts—trip planning, training and taking essentials—using resources at AdventureSmart.ca. By preparing thoughtfully and respecting fire restrictions, British Columbians can enjoy the long weekend while supporting wildfire prevention and community safety.
Harnaik Singh Rathor is the Founder, Publisher, and Editor-in-Chief of StudioX News Canada, Canada's multilingual digital news network serving diaspora communities across 44 languages. With a background in media production, public relations, and multicultural communications, he founded StudioX Film and TV Corporation to bridge the gap between mainstream Canadian media and the country's diverse immigrant communities. He is a member of the Canadian Association of Journalists (CAJ), RTDNA Canada, CPRS Vancouver, Unifor, NEPMCC, and the Canada Freelance Union. Based in Surrey, British Columbia. | LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/harnaiksinghrathor/ | Muck Rack: https://muckrack.com/harnaiksinghrathor | Email: editor@studioxnews.ca
