Prescribed burn planned for O’Connor Lake area



KAMLOOPS – The BC Wildfire Service will be supporting Thompson Rivers Natural Resource District in conducting a prescribed burn covering up to 3.5 hectares, about 23 kilometres north of Kamloops.
Smoke may be visible from Kamloops, Heffley Creek and surrounding areas, and to motorists travelling along Highway 5 North.

The exact timing of this burn will depend on weather and site conditions, but it could begin as early as March 13, 2025 Burning will proceed if conditions are suitable and allow for smoke dispersal during burn operations, though smoke may also linger in the following days.

Key goals of this prescribed burn include:
• helping to restore forest health and a properly functioning ecosystem
• returning a natural and necessary process to the land base
• removing forest fuels to reduce the long-term risk of wildfire

Fire is a normal and natural process in many of B.C.’s ecosystems. The BC Wildfire Service works regularly with a range of partners to undertake fuel management activities (including the use of controlled burns), to help reduce the severity of future wildfires and related threats to communities. These projects are carefully planned and only go ahead at the right times and under the right conditions to ensure community and practitioner safety.  

Visit the BC Wildfire Service Cultural and prescribed fire webpage for more information

Exposure to smoke can irritate eyes and respiratory tracts and worsen pre-existing lung and heart conditions. If your area is impacted by smoke:
• Run portable air cleaners with windows and doors closed. Both commercial and home-made units (https://rb.gy/90uh5s) can be effective if operated properly.
• Reduce the length and intensity of outdoor activities.
• Manage pre-existing conditions and seek medical care if you have severe symptoms.

Learn more about protecting health from smoke online: http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/prevention-public-health/wildfire-smoke

You can follow the latest wildfire news on:

Contact:
Nolan Wallace, RPF
Land and Resource Coordinator– Wildfire Risk Reduction
Thompson Rivers Natural Resource District
Ministry of Forests
Office: 250-371-6500

Fire Information Officer
BC Wildfire Service
Kamloops Fire Centre
250-554-5965
BCWS.KFCInfo@gov.bc.ca

Connect with the Province of B.C. at www.gov.bc.ca/connect.