Contributed
Once again, overnight conditions supported the efforts of firefighters patrolling areas affected by the Trepanier forest fire.
A few spot fires were reported to fire patrols by RCMP, which has also been conducting patrols throughout the area still under evacuation order and staffing security checkpoints.
BC Wildfire Management says the fire hasn’t grown and remains at an estimated 200-hectares and is now 85 per cent contained.
Today, local government staff will continue their efforts to attempt to mark, identify and where possible remove hazards that could threaten the safety of residents. Among these hazards are dangerous trees, falling limbs and ground threats (unexpected holes) as well as ensuring infrastructure (electricity) is intact. There have also been small isolated active fires identified in the Evacuation area.
Emergency Operation Centre staff is working with Incident Commanders in the field to determine when conditions are safe for residents to return to their homes.
It’s hoped further information will be available later this morning to update the status of the Evacuation Order and Alerts.
Evacuated residents may receive assistance with food, lodging and clothing by visiting the Emergency Support Services reception centre at the Westbank Lions Community Hall, 2466 Main Street in West Kelowna. The centre opens at 9:00 this morning.
A comprehensive map of Evacuation Order and Evacuation Alert areas is available on www.cordemergency.ca .
A total of 1,292 people are still on an Evacuation Alert.
The District of Peachland will be in setting up a Recovery Office to support residents who have been affected by the Trepanier Forest Fire. Contact information and further details will be provided later today.
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