The BC Wildfire Service will conduct prescribed burns along Highway 20 between Hanceville and Chilanko Forks as early as Monday, March 10 to help prevent uncontrolled fires.
Smoke and flames could be visible from Riske Creek, Tl'esqox, Tsi Del Del, Yunesit’in, T’letinqox, Alexis Creek, Highway 20 and from surrounding areas. Burning will only proceed if weather conditions are appropriate.
Prescribed burns will cover a high-risk area of up to 35 hectares and will be closely monitored by fire crews. Traffic control will be in place to ensure the safety of crews and the public.
Smoke could linger for several days following burns, and surrounding communities are encouraged to take appropriate measures to prevent potential health issues such as the irritation of eyes and respiratory tracts or the worsening of pre-existing lung and heart conditions.
To minimize this impact, it is recommended to reduce the length and intensity of outdoor activities, to manage pre-existing conditions, to run portable air cleaners while keeping windows and doors closed and to seek medical care if you are displaying severe symptoms.
The prescribed burns are being conducted in partnership with Tsilhqot’in communities, the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure, BC Parks, the Cariboo Chilcotin Regional District and BC Hydro.
You can learn more about prescribed burning online at prescribedfire.ca or on the BC Wildfire Service's Cultural and Prescribed Fire webpage.
