BC Wildfire Service radio communications equipment was vandalized sometime between July 29 and Aug. 2, putting the safety of firefighting personnel at risk, the Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations and BC Wildfire Service stated in a press release this afternoon (August 4).

The communications equipment is located on Thompson Mountain in the Southeast Fire Centre and is accessible from the Thompson Rim Trail, southeast of Creston. The equipment was damaged beyond repair and it will cost between $80,000 and $100,000 to replace the radio gear and install it in a more secure area.

At this time of the year, when wildfire behaviour can be both aggressive and unpredictable, it’s crucial for BC Wildfire Service personnel to be able to communicate with each other quickly and effectively. Radio repeaters and related equipment are vital for ensuring the safety of firefighting crews and for protecting the public and infrastructure from harm, the release stated.

Radio repeaters used by the BC Wildfire Service are located throughout the province. Anyone who comes across this equipment in the backcountry should leave it alone.

Anyone who has information about the vandalism that occurred at Thompson Mountain is asked to contact their local RCMP detachment or call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS.

To report a wildfire, unattended campfire or open burning violation, call 1-800-663-5555 toll-free or *5555 on a cellphone.

For the latest information on current wildfire activity, burning restrictions, road closures and air quality advisories, visit https://www.bcwildfire.ca.

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