BC Wildfire Service is urging members of the public in the Kootenays to stay clear of aircraft fighting wildfires as fire activity in the province continues to escalate.
Smoke is becoming increasingly visible across most of the Southeast Fire Centre region, with 1,277 lightning strikes and 94 new fire starts recorded since Wednesday, July 17.
Skimmers and helicopters are supporting ground crew and response efforts, and are using local water sources, particularly in the Arrow, Kootenay Lake and Columbia fire zones.
In the interest of crew and public safety, the public is urged to keep well away from areas where airtankers or helicopters are operating.
People using other watercraft in the intended flightpath present a serious safety risk for air crews and anyone else in the area. Any potential conflict with these aircraft is extremely dangerous and interferes with the ability to fight wildfires.
BC Wildfire is responding to current and emerging fires on a priority basis.
Find wildfire updates on the mobile app or online at: https://wildfiresituation.nrs.gov.bc.ca/dashboard
To report a wildfire, dial 1-800-663-5555 or *5555 from a cell phone.
