CASTLEGAR – Effective immediately on Friday, Aug. 4, 2023, the Area Restriction that was established around the St. Mary’s River wildfire (N11805) will be rescinded. As the fire behaviour and activity has decreased, firefighting personnel no longer need to restrict public access to operate efficiently and safely in the area.
The BC Wildfire Service reminds members of the public that the St. Mary’s River wildfire is an active worksite, and they should always exercise caution while travelling 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 Even if an area restriction has been rescinded, officials still have the authority under the Wildfire Act and its regulations to order anyone to leave the area.
Reminder that Mission Wasa Low Road remains under an Evacuation Order at this time and entry to this area remains prohibited. Mission Road to LD Ranch Road remains closed for public access at this time while danger tree falling continues.
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. Ash pits can be hard to detect and can remain hot long after the flames have died down.
Nearby communities can still expect to see smoke within the fire’s perimeter over the coming weeks. Smoke appearing from within the fire perimeter and burned material is common; however, smoke that rises from green, unburned fuel or from outside a fire’s perimeter should be reported immediately.
Road closures and area restrictions are subject to change depending on fire activity. For the most current information please visit the Bans and Restrictions section of the BC Wildfire Service website for the Southeast Fire Centre.
The Southeast Fire Centre extends from the U.S. border in the south to Mica Dam in the north, and from the Okanagan Highlands and Monashee Mountains in the west, to the B.C. and Alberta border in the east.
To report a wildfire, unattended campfire, or open burning violation, call 1 800 663-5555 toll-free or *5555 on a cell phone. For the latest information on current wildfire activity, burning restrictions, road closures and air-quality advisories, visit: http://www.bcwildfire.ca or on the public mobile app.
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Contact:
Southeast Fire Centre Information Team
BC Wildfire Service | Southeast Fire Centre
BCWS.SEFCInformationOfficer@gov.bc.ca
250 318-7715