184 wildfires burning in B.C.

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      Twenty-seven wildfires were sparked on Sunday (July 5), bringing the total number of active fires in B.C. to 184.

      Today (July 6), the B.C. government said there were nine evacuation alerts and orders currently in effect, affecting over 800 homes.

      "British Columbians are urged to be responsible and abide by all fire bans and evacuation orders until conditions change," a news release from the Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations states.

      "Campfire bans have now been implemented across the province. Failure to abide by the Wildfire Act, including open burning restrictions, can result in a $345 fine. Anyone who causes damage to Crown forest or grass land through arson or recklessness can be fined up to $1 million or spend up to three years in prison."

      Smoke from forest fires has limited visibility in Metro Vancouver and the Fraser Valley, where an air quality advisory is in effect.

      A wildfire smoke advisory has been issued for the Sea to Sky corridor.

      "If you see or smell smoke in the air, you're encouraged to avoid strenuous outdoor activities, especially people with chronic underlying medical conditions. Staying indoors and in air conditioned spaces helps to reduce fine particulate exposure. Exposure is particularly a concern for infants, the elderly and those who have underlying respiratory conditions - like asthma and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease - or heart disease," the ministry's release says.

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