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Wildfire officials urge drone operators to stay away from fire scenes or risk hefty fine, jail

You could be fined up to $100,000.

Drones are once again causing problems for the BC Wildfire Service, as crews work to fight wildfires threatening homes across the Interior.

Fire information officer Noelle Kekula said air support crews are being hindered on some wildfires by unauthorized drones flying in the area.

“We are getting reports of drones back on our fires that are impeding air operations,” Kekula said.

“If you own a drone and are interested in the fires, don’t be. … Please do not be using any of this equipment in and around our fires.”

On June 19, the BC Wildfire Service was forced to temporarily halt air support on the George Road fire near Lytton due to a drone flying in the area.

At the time, officials said anyone operating a drone found to be interfering with wildfire operations could be fined up to $100,000 or jailed up to one year.

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