REDSTONE – The BC Wildfire Service is collaborating with Tŝideldel First Nation to conduct a series of prescribed burns 188 kilometres west of Williams Lake within the community of Tŝideldel.
When and where
- The prescribed burn area will cover approximately 50 hectares, divided into four parcels.
- The parcels are located on the north and south sides of Highway 20.
- This burn was initially scheduled for early March. Due to site conditions and weather forecasts, burning will now start Wednesday, April 2, and continue periodically until April 18.
- Ignitions will only proceed if weather and site conditions are suitable and allow for quick smoke dissipation.
What to expect
- Smoke and flames will be visible to nearby residences, the community of Tŝideldel and to motorists on Highway 20.
- Crews will ignite ground fuels with hand torches and will control and closely monitor fire activity.
- While burning is underway, traffic control will be on-site to ensure the safety of public and firefighters, short delays may occur.
Objectives of these prescribed burns
- Reduce wildfire risk near the community of Tŝideldel.
- Help native plants grow while limiting the spread of invasive species.
Minimizing health impacts from smoke
Exposure to smoke from wildfires or prescribed burning can irritate eyes and respiratory tracts and worsen pre-existing lung and heart conditions. If your area is impacted by smoke:
- Manage pre-existing conditions and seek medical care for severe symptoms.
- Reduce the length and intensity of outdoor activities.
- 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.
Learn about protecting your health from smoke online: http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/prevention-public-health/wildfire-smoke
Learn more
Fire has been used by Indigenous Peoples for millennia to manage flora and fauna and is continued through the communities cultural fire program. Projects like this are renewing past traditions and practices and is an opportunity for BC Wildfire Service staff to work with the community of Tŝideldel.
Learn more about prescribed burning online at prescribedfire.ca or find more resources here.
To report a wildfire, dial *5555 on a cell phone or call 1 800 663-5555 toll-free. To report an unattended campfire or open burning violation, call the RAPP line on 1 877 952-7277.
You can also use the Report function in the BC Wildfire App to report a wildfire. Reporting though the app let’s you upload images and can be used without service.
For the latest information on current wildfire activity, prohibitions and restrictions, road closures, and air-quality advisories please visit BCWildfire.ca, the BC Wildfire Map, or use the BC Wildfire app.
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Contact
Fire Information Officer
BC Wildfire Service | Cariboo Fire Centre
778 799-2100
Connect with the Province of B.C. at www.gov.bc.ca/connect