Public cooperation with ongoing restrictions urged

As the last active Evacuation Alert in the Columbia Valley was lifted earlier yesterday, the Electoral Area Director for Area F is praising the wildfire response and urging the public to continue to be aware of ongoing Area Restrictions around the Valley and beyond.

“I am profoundly grateful to everyone who has been actively engaged in responding to the wildfires in our region. To all the BC Wildfire Service personnel, frontline firefighters, the support crews and countless others who have worked day and night to protect homes, businesses and keep our communities safe, thank you,” said Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) Electoral Area F Director Susan Clovechok.

“I also want to acknowledge the tremendous efforts put forth at the community level over the past four weeks. From businesses stepping up to do whatever is needed, to volunteers operating the airports or people opening their homes and hearts by offering support to friends and neighbours, our valley has risen up together and it has been wonderful to see this incredible community response during such a difficult time for so many.”

While there has been progress on the fire front, Clovechok is urging residents to continue to be aware and responsible with their recreation.

“We still have a number of active fires and extremely dry conditions. This cooler reprieve in the weather will be short lived and we need to ensure we are exercising diligence and personal responsibility when we are out recreating and using the backcountry,” added Clovechok.

“Please respect all Area Restrictions. Take time to ensure you are aware of the local closures and current conditions where you are heading, even if it’s just for a short day trip or bike ride.”

The RDEK is asking all recreationalists and backcountry users to choose an alternate destination if their plans have them visiting an area near an active wildfire and to visit www.bcwildfire.ca  prior to heading out to check both the wildfire map and the Bans and Restrictions page.

BC Wildfire Service file photo

RDEK

Article Share