Crews making control lines on Horsethief Creek fire

BC Wildfire crews continue to make progress on the Horsethief Creek fire by establishing a machine guard and making control lines.

The fire, still mapped at 1,020 hectares, is being actioned by 68 personnel, helicopter support and 12 pieces of heavy equipment.

A machine guard has reportedly been established from the Bruce FSR to Toby Creek, and a guard has been made along the BC Hydro access road.

Ground crews are making control lines by hand, removing the fuels in an avalanche chute on the east flank to bolster natural control lines. Direct attack of the fire will be undertaken where conditions allow.

Indirect attack strategies include small scale hand ignitions to reinforce control lines. Ignitions began Friday, therefore, an increase in smoke may be noticeable.

Structure protection personnel and local fire departments continue to work together to assess, set up, and install equipment on areas of potential concern.

The Evacuation Alert and Order remain in effect. Visit www.rdek.bc.ca for more information.

The fire was reported on July 24, with the suspected cause being lightning.