The B.C. government is using the extraordinary powers granted to it under its state of emergency declaration to implement a restriction on tourism-related travel to areas affected by wildfires.

Emergency Management Minister, Bowinn Ma, says the order restricts non-essential travel to places like Kamloops, Kelowna, West Kelowna, Vernon, Penticton, Osoyoos, and Oliver to make room for evacuees and first responders.

Ma urged people already in those communities to consider checking out of their hotel, motel or campground and going home early.

“People, families, firefighters and other front-line responders need a safe place to stay during this extremely challenging and difficult time,” Ma said. “Under this order, we are restricting travel to several communities for anyone planning on staying in temporary accommodation.”

It comes as Premier David Eby said there 35,000 people across the province who are under evacuation orders with another 30,000 on alert. There were around 15,000 people on evacuation order and 23,000 on alert as of of Eby’s last news conference Friday night.

Eby also says Solicitor General Mike Farnworth has also authorized emergency provisions to allow municipal RCMP resources to be deployed to evacuated areas and secure empty properties.

In a statement, Southeast District RCMP spokesperson Cpl. James Grandy said there RCMP officers from across the province are mobilizing to help out in the affected communities.

He says residents can expect to see “a notable influx” of RCMP personnel from various detachments and other specialized units. They will be assisting with evacuations while also patrolling to ensure the deter looting and other potential criminal activities.

“Our utmost priority is the safety and well-being of our communities,” Grandy said. “As additional officers arrive to the area, we urge everyone to exercise patience, listen to instructions from emergency personnel, and drive cautiously.”

“We remain committed to public safety and community support during these challenging times.”

Grandy and the RCMP are also advising against the use of non-governmental drones in areas affected by wildfires.

“Unauthorized drone operations in the area are dangerous and unlawful,” he said, noting people found interfering with wildfire control efforts – including flying drones – can be fined up $100,000 and/or spend up to one year in jail.