Area restriction for the Bearhole Lake wildfire rescinded



DAWSON CREEK—The Area Restriction that was established around the Bearhole Lake wildfire (G72178) has been rescinded effective as of 11:59 p.m. (PDT) on September 21, 2022.

With the reduced fire activity and behaviour, both current and anticipated, there is no longer a need to restrict public access in order for firefighting personnel to operate efficiently and safely in the area. The Bearhole Lake wildfire was classified as Under Control effective as of 7:00 p.m. on September 20, 2022.

The BC Wildfire Service reminds members of the public and industry that the Bearhole Lake wildfire is still an active wildfire and caution should be exercised at all times while travelling or working in the area. Even if an area restriction has been rescinded, officials still have the authority under the Wildfire Act and its regulations to order anyone to leave the area.

Before entering any area affected by a wildfire, members of the public should be aware that significant safety hazards may be present. Trees that have been damaged by fire might be unstable and could fall, particularly under the forecasted winds for the Peace region in the coming days. Ash pits can be hard to detect and can remain hot long after the flames have died down.

Nearby communities can expect to see smoke and low-vigour flame within the fire’s perimeter for some time, likely until there is snowfall. Smoke appearing from within the perimeter and burned material is common; however, smoke that rises from green, unburnt fuel or from outside the perimeter should be reported immediately.

A reminder that in order to safely travel on resource roads (ie. Forest Service Roads), there are rules that must be followed. Resource roads are not built to the same standards as highways. Ground crews will be continuing to use resource roads in the area for suppression activity and public users must exercise caution when travelling on these roads. Review the resource road user safety guide.

Road closures and area restrictions are subject to change depending on fire activity. For the most current information please visit the BC Wildfire Service’s Bans and Restrictions page.

To report a wildfire or an open burning violation, call *5555 on a cell phone or 1-800-663-5555 toll-free. Reporting is also available through the BC Wildfire Service mobile app.

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Prince George Fire Centre Information Team