Prescribed burn planned along Highway 20



CHILCOTIN – The BC Wildfire Service in partnership with the Tsilhqot’in Nation communities, Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure, BC Parks, Cariboo Chilcotin Regional District and BC Hydro and will be conducting a series of prescribed burns, up to 35 hectares, along Highway 20 between Hanceville as far west as Chilanko Forks.

The exact timing of this burn will depend on weather and site conditions, but it could begin as early as Monday, March 10th, 2024. Burning will proceed if conditions are suitable and allow for smoke dispersal during burn operations, though smoke may also linger in the following days.

Smoke and flames from this prescribed burn may be visible from Riske Creek, Tl’esqox, Tsi Del Del, Yunesit’in, T’letinqox, Alexis Creek, Highway 20 and surrounding areas. Firefighters will closely monitor this fire at all times. While burning is underway, traffic control will be on-site to ensure the safety of the public and firefighters.

The goal of this prescribed burn is to reduce the fuel hazard to protect the infrastructure and prevent uncontrolled fires along the Highway 20 corridor for the Spring fire season. Crews will be targeting high risk areas between Hanceville and Chilanko Forks.

Fire is a natural process in many of B.C.’s ecosystems. The BC Wildfire Service works regularly with land managers to undertake fuel management activities, including the use of prescribed burns, to help reduce the severity of future wildfires and related threats to communities.

Learn more about prescribed burning online at prescribedfire.ca or at BC Wildfire Service cultural and prescribed fire.

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 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.

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Contact:

Fire Information Officer
Cariboo Fire Centre
BC Wildfire Service
778 799-2100
BCWS.CaFCInformationOfficer@gov.bc.ca

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