MERRITT – The BC Wildfire Service will be supporting Upper Similkameen Indian Band in conducting a cultural burn covering up to 40 hectares, spread out between multiple treatment units. This is part of a three year project that began in 2024 and covers a total of 168 hectares and this burn will complete the remainder of this project. The burn is located on Chuchuwayha IR #2, about three kilometres west of Hedley, adjacent to Highway 3.
Key goals of this prescribed burn include:
- removing forest fuels to reduce the long-term risk of wildfire
- provide critical cross training opportunities for BC Wildfire Service Personnel and members of the Upper Similkameen Indian Band
Smoke may be visible from the Upper Similkameen Indian Band, the community of Hedley, Princeton and surrounding areas, as well as to motorists travelling along Highway 3.
The exact timing of this burn will depend on weather and site conditions, but it could begin as early as Tuesday, Mar 3. Burning will proceed if conditions are suitable and allow for smoke dispersal during burn operations, though smoke may also linger in the following days.
The Cultural Burning and Prescribed Fire Youtube is an excellent resource to learn more about prescribed and cultural fire.
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 and Prescribedfire.ca 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
To report a wildfire, unattended campfire, or open burning violation, call 1 800 663-5555 tollfree or *5555 on a cell phone or through the BC Wildfire Service mobile app. For the latest information on current wildfire activity, burning restrictions, road closures and air-quality advisories, visit: http://www.bcwildfire.ca
You can follow the latest wildfire news on:
- The free BC Wildfire Service app, available for Apple (iOS) and Android devices
Facebook at: http://facebook.com/BCForestFireInfo
Contact:
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.