Fire SPU set for upgrade
The Invermere fire department’s sprinkler protection unit (SPU) proved a boon to provincial wildland firefighters this past summer.
Tag: Wildfire
Wildfires burn valley’s tourism industry
The threat posed by the major wildfires still flickering in the Columbia Valley has been dimming since mid-August, and has now receded even further thanks to cool weather and a decent burst of rain last week. But in a case of financial damage instead of physical damage, while the flames crackled and smoke billowed, the valley’s tourism industry — a key part of the local economy — took a hit during a time (the busy summer period) when it is normally at its peak.
Mayor takes hat off to responders
On July 24, Invermere and Columbia Valley residents and visitors heard about, and soon saw, the smoke from the Horsethief Creek wildfire.
RDEK chair praises wildfire response
As a region, we are profoundly grateful for the tireless efforts of the BC Wildfire Service, from their front-line personnel to the contractors, pilots, heavy equipment operators and support staff.
Public urged to stay clear of firefighting operations
Wildland fire officials are reminding Columbia Valley residents and visitors to please keep clear of firefighter operations, be they on land, water or air.
CVSAR kept busy with several rescues
Columbia Valley Search and Rescue (CVSAR) seems to have all the training it needs with its frequent call-outs this time of year.
Area restriction in effect for Jubilee Mountain
CASTLEGAR – The BC Wildfire Service has implemented an Area Restriction Order for the vicinity of...
Evacuation Order issued in Cross River area
As the Yearling Creek fire expands, the RDEK has issued an Evacuation Order for three dwellings in the Cross River area.
RDEK issues Evacuation Alert due to wildfire
The Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) has issued an Evacuation Alert for four areas due to the Horsethief Creek wildfire.
Gusty winds driving Horsethief Creek wildfire
The BC Wildfire Service (BCWS) is brainstorming suppression tactics to combat the Horsethief Creek wildfire spurred by Columbia Valley winds.
Wildfire burns on Mount Bruce
A wildfire began burning in the Columbia Valley earlier today.
Planned outage due to fire
A pole in BC Hydro’s transmission line that serves the communities of Invermere, Golden, Parsons, and Radium Hot Springs has been significantly damaged by the St. Mary’s River wildfire and needs to be replaced.
Campers light fire during ban
On July 13, officers responded to a report of some campers having a fire, which turned out to be a small camp fire.
Get rid of your debris
Residents of Stoddart Estates will be able to take part in a Community Debris Bin Event hosted by the East Kootenay FireSmart Program later this month.
Mitchell Ridge wildfire ‘held’ at 288 hectares
Parks Canada reports that the Mitchell Ridge wildfire is being “held” at 288 hectares.
Campfires should be banned too
As the wildfire danger ramps up in BC, the province in its ‘half-hearted’ wisdom has prohibited all open burning (Category 2 and 3 fires). Makes sense considering the volatility of the situation.
Plan ahead for emergencies: Red Cross
Smoke from the wildfires burning in northern Alberta drifted south and filled the Columbia Valley last week, reminding residents that wildfire season has begun.
Mitchell Ridge wildfire slowing down at 288 hectares
The lightning-caused Mitchell Ridge fire in Kootenay National Park has burned more than 260 hectares.
Kick procrastination and complacency out of the house
Procrastination and complacency are the two attitudes that people can no longer afford in the summertime.
Firefighters Gain Upper Hand on Wildfire South of Fairmont
Photo submitted Highway 93/95 has been re-opened after being temporarily closed overnight due to a...
