NAZKO – The BC Wildfire Service in collaboration with Nazko First Nation will conduct a prescribed burn within the Nazko Community.
When and where
- Burning is expected to begin as early as Tuesday, April 14 and may continue periodically until April 30
- The prescribed burn will take place north east of the Nazko Community adjacent to Nazko Road
What to expect
- Smoke and flames will be visible to Nazko First Nation community and to motorists travelling along Nazko Road
- Crews will ignite ground fuels to remove combustible materials to mimic a low intensity wildland fire
- Ignitions will only proceed with favorable weather and atmospheric venting allowing smoke to clear quickly
- Personnel will remain on site until there is no risk of the fire spreading beyond the perimeter and return daily until the fire is out
- Smoke from within the perimeter of the burn may be visible up to 72 hours after ignition
- While burning is underway, traffic control will be onsite to ensure the safety of public and firefighters, short delays may occur
Objectives of this pile burn
- Reduce wildfire risk around the community of Nazko First Nation and surrounding residences
- Use fire to restore grassland and forest health to mimic a naturally occurring wildland fire and encourage a properly functioning ecosystem
- Strengthen relationships between BC Wildfire Service staff and Nazko First Nation to collaborate on wildfire prevention efforts
Minimizing health impacts from smoke
Exposure to smoke from wildfires or prescribed burning can irritate eyes and respiratory tracts and worsen pre-existing lung and heart conditions. If your area is impacted by smoke:
- Manage pre-existing conditions and seek medical care if you have severe symptoms.
- Reduce the length and intensity of outdoor activities.
- 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.
Learn about protecting your health from smoke online: http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/prevention-public-health/wildfire-smoke
Learn more
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 wildfire risk reduction projects, to help reduce the severity of future wildfires and related threats to communities.
Learn more about prescribed burning online at prescribedfire.ca or find more resources here.
Reporting
- To report an unattended campfire or open burning violation calling call the RAPP line at 1-877-952-7277
- To report illegal fires in a local fire department’s jurisdiction, call 9-1-1
- Dial *5555 on a cell phone or call 1-800-663-5555 toll-free to report a wildfire.
- Use the Report function in the BC Wildfire App to report a wildfire. Reporting though the app lets you upload images and can be used without service
Stay in the know
For the latest information on current wildfire activity, prohibitions and restrictions, road closures and air-quality advisories please visit BCWildfire.ca, the BC Wildfire Map, or use the BC Wildfire app.
Follow the latest wildfire news on:
Contact
Fire Information Officer
Cariboo Fire Centre | BC Wildfire Service
778-799-2100
CaFCInfo@gov.bc.ca
Connect with the Province of B.C. at www.gov.bc.ca/connect