Prescribed burn planned for Coldwater IR #1 area



MERRITT – The BC Wildfire Service (BCWS) will be supporting the Coldwater Indian Band Fire Department in conducting a prescribed burn that will cover multiple treatment units that amount to 65 hectares on the Coldwater Indian Reserve #1, about 10 kilometres southwest of Merritt. This is part of an ongoing project with the Coldwater Indian Band.

Smoke may be visible from Merritt, Coldwater Indian Band, surrounding areas, and to motorists travelling along Highway 5.

The exact timing of this burn will depend on weather and site conditions, but it could begin as early as March 3, 2025, until the end of April 2025. Burning will proceed if conditions are suitable and allow for smoke dispersal during burn operations, though smoke may also linger in the following days.

Key goals of this prescribed burn include:

  • returning a natural and necessary process to the land base
  • reducing build-up of dead and combustible material
  • improving winter grazing conditions
  • removing forest fuels to reduce the long-term risk of wildfire
  • providing cross-training opportunities between BCWS and the Coldwater Indian Band Fire Department

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 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

You can follow the latest wildfire news on:

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.