100 Mile Fire Rescue plans to conduct 19-hectare prescribed burn in the Exeter area this month.
On Tuesday, April 8 the BC Wildfire Service announced they will be assisting 100 Mile Fire Rescue in completing the burn which is being done to help reduce wildfire threats in the area. In the release, they noted preparation work for the burn, including small-scale fire ignitions to create control lines, may begin as early as April 8.
The primary burn is scheduled to begin April 9 and will continue periodically until April 30. In the release, the BC Wildfire Service noted ignitions will only proceed if conditions are suitable and allow for smoke dispersal during the operation. They did acknowledge, however, that smoke may linger in the days following a burn.
During this prescribed burn smoke and flames will be visible from 100 Mile House and other surrounding communities, in addition to motorists on Highway 97. 100 Mile Fire Rescue will ignite ground fuel to remove combustible materials before extinguishing the perimeter of the burn at the end of each day.
Smoke from within the perimeter of this burn may remain for up to 48 hours after the initial ignition. Firefighters will remain on site into the evening to monitor the conditions.
In the event smoke impacts the community, BC Wildfire Service warned it can irritate the eyes and respiratory tracks of healthy individuals and potentially worsen pre-existing lung and heart conditions. They advise anyone with pre-existing conditions whose area is impacted by smoke to reduce the length and intensity of outdoor additives and to seek medical care if they experience severe symptoms. Residents can also run portable air cleaners with their windows and doors closed to help filter the air.
Beyond reducing the risk of wildfires igniting within the District of 100 Mile House's municipal boundaries, BC Wildfire said this use of fire will restore the health of the grassland and forest ecosystem within the area. They also noted this collaboration will strengthen ties between members of 100 Mile Fire Rescue and the BC Wildfire Service.
Anyone looking to report a wildfire can do so by dialling *5555 on a cell phone or by calling 1-800-663-5555 toll-free. To report an unattended campfire or open burning violation, call the RAPP line at 1-877-952-7277.
The latest information on wildfire activity, fire restrictions, road closure and air quality advisories can be found at BCWildfire.ca, on the BC Wildfire Map or by using the BC Wildfire app.
