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Wildfire threatens ?aqam community
At about 4 p.m. August 23, a wildfire broke out in the ?aqam community within proximity of the community housing corridor, resulting in the evacuation of 13 homes.
At 8:45 p.m., the residents of seven homes were able to return home with a total of six homes to remain on evacuation order.
An additional 23 properties remain on evacuation alert.
BC Wildfire Service reports the fire is an estimated 3.08 hectares. Its cause is unknown at this time.
Cranbrook Fire and Emergency Services and BC Wildfire Service personnel responded and were followed by a heavy bucket helicopter that worked together to protect structures and carry out evacuations.
“We are thankful for the fast response of the emergency personnel and for the action and cooperation of the residents who reported the fire and followed directions of emergency personnel,” stated Nasu?kin Joe Pierre.
“We ask that residents and the public remain out of the area of the fire as there is a risk of tree fall and other hazards present. We want to ensure that firefighters have room to ensure they can continue their firefighting operations.”
The ?aqam community is grateful for the response and collaboration of the City of Cranbrook Fire and Emergency Services, the Regional District of East Kootenay Emergency Management personnel, BC Wildfire, Red Cross, BC Ambulance Services, Cranbrook RCMP and personnel from the Ktunaxa Nation Council and ?aqam Emergency Management services, ?aqam community noted in a media release.
“The wildfire risk remains high and we encourage everyone to ensure that they are prepared by gathering supplies, making a plan and signing up for the evacuation notification system. If you need resources for preparing, please contact Sloane More Operations Coordinator [email protected] or Michelle Shortridge, Director of Operations at [email protected], the media release concluded.
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