KAMLOOPS, B.C. — Tactical evacuations have started in northeastern British Columbia as wildfires tear through the area. An update from the B.C. Wildfire Service Wednesday night said efforts are focused on protecting public life and safety in the Peace River Regional District and the District of Chetywnd, which are both within the Prince George Fire Centre. The service said the fire covering approximately 50 hectares also forced the closure of Highway 97. This year’s wildfire season is off to an early start, with more than 170 blazes burning in British Columbia and Alberta, and both provinces issuing fire bans. On Wednesday, the BC Wildfire Service announced a five-month open fire ban, from May 3 to Oct. 11, covering a swath of the province’s Interior. …”This prohibition is being enacted to help prevent human-caused wildfires and protect public safety,” the service said.