Dear Editor:
It is perplexing that the penalty for starting illegal fires or careless disposal of lit smoking materials remains a mere $1,100.00.
On Aug. 10, it was reported that a man conducted an illegal hunt of wildlife was fined $3,150 and had a two-year hunting ban imposed. I do not mean to diminish the importance of protecting wildlife, but the illegal hunt caused the death of only one elk.
It is my understanding that an illegal kill triggers an investigation that will oblige a suspect to forfeit their firearms, any devices used in their illegal hunt, their hunting privileges and possibly their vehicle until the investigation is complete. Criminal charges may then be laid and penalties assessed.
A human caused fire that becomes a wildfire can cost the province millions, endanger firefighters, displace people from their homes and jobs, destroy homes, public and private infrastructure, equipment and the environment, injure or kill domestic and wild animals, affect the economy and the physical and psychological health of residents and visitors alike.
An $1,100 fine sounds more like a financial inconvenience than a financial deterrent.
The penalties for starting a wildfire need to be revisited and made relevant to the seriousness of the offence.
Pati Hill
Summerland