BURSTDespite no active fire bans or restrictions in the Prince George Fire Centre on Friday, Aug. 21, a prohibition on Category 2 and Category 3 fires was implemented within the Fort St. James Fire jurisdiction, effective at noon. Fire Chief Ryan McVey promptly took to social media to ensure public awareness, stating, “This ban includes burn barrels and fireworks of any kind. Be safe.”
Throughout the weekend, Chief McVey served as a reassuring presence for the community as two separate fires ignited in the region. On Aug.22, he addressed the situation, saying, “We are aware of a fire just off the Bud Forest Service Road. I just spoke with the BC Wildfire Service (BCWS), and there is a helicopter dropping water, along with an attack crew already on site. They will keep me updated as needed. It’s dry out there.”
Later that evening, McVey reported that after consulting with air patrol, the fire status had improved from “out of control” to “being held,” and by the following day, it was officially declared out. McVey further stated, “With the lightning we had overnight and the potential for more today, BCWS will be conducting ‘detection’ flights. These flights allow for quicker detection of any new fires. In addition, BCWS has an Initial Attack crew and helicopter stationed here for a rapid response if needed.”
On the same day that the Bud Forest Service Road fire was extinguished, McVey returned to inform the public about another concern. Although the Middle River is outside the Fort St. James fire response area, it is home to many. A new wildfire, G51747, was detected that morning due to lightning. The blaze was located near the north shore of the lake. Suppression efforts were underway.
The final update on Aug.24 brought good news: “BCWS’ swift response to the fire near Middle River not only prevented it from spreading but also led to it being officially declared ‘out’ last night. Crews will return today to hopefully extinguish fire G51587, located between Trembleur Lake and Stuart Lake.”
The timely and effective communication through social media provided peace of mind to the community amidst the weekend’s smoke and fire activity.