How wildfire is detected - Province of British Columbia
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How wildfire is detected
Last updated on February 9, 2026
Detecting wildfires early is critical for success. The BC Wildfire Service (BCWS) detects wildfires using a variety of methods.
General public reports
The biggest asset for detecting new fires in B.C. is YOU! Approximately 40% of wildfires in B.C. are reported by the general public.
If you see a wildfire, abandoned campfire or dangerous activity that could cause a wildfire, call 1-800-663-5555 or *5555 on a cell phone.
Detection by land users
B.C. has over 94 million hectares of forests and wildland. With such a large land base, the BCWS relies on people who use and enjoy the land to report new wildfires. Each season, wildfires are detected by people:
Participating in traditional forest practices
Industrial forest operations
Fishing
Hunting
Camping
Hiking
Using off-road vehicles
General wilderness recreation
While people using wildland areas may pose a small risk of causing wildfires, the vast majority of land users act responsibly and observe guidelines. Land users are a huge asset for detecting new wildfires early. This helps the BCWS respond successfully.
Other detection methods
Some regions of the province are less populated. This means that fires may not be detected immediately by the general public.
We detect fires in more remote areas using methods such as:
Air patrols (both fixed-wing aircraft and helicopters)
Fire warden ground patrols
Infrared technology
Computer technology and predictive software
Lookout towers
Report a wildfire
If you see smoke, flames or an open fire violation, call 1 800 663-5555 or *5555 immediately.
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The B.C. Public Service acknowledges the territories of First Nations around B.C. and is grateful to carry out our work on these lands. We acknowledge the rights, interests, priorities, and concerns of all Indigenous Peoples - First Nations, Métis, and Inuit - respecting and acknowledging their distinct cultures, histories, rights, laws, and governments.
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