Mount Law Wildfire update and Evacuation Orders Rescinded

News Release No. 27 Central Okanagan, B.C. — With favourable weather conditions continuing, there has been no significant growth in the Mount Law Wildfire over the last 24 hours and the evacuation order for the property at 3250 Highway 97 has been downgraded to an evacuation alert.

Returning residents are reminded that they may encounter various hazards on private properties as a result of the wildfire. Crews continue fire suppression in the area, and residents should stay out of the way of emergency vehicles and crews.

“While smoke continues to be visible, this is not a threat for residents returning to their community” said Jason Brolund, Fire Chief of West Kelowna Fire Rescue. “Smoke plumes are from the perimeter of the fire and those lines are not being challenged.”

A small planned ignition was successfully conducted near Drought Creek yesterday, to help reinforce the guard on the east side of the fire. Last night, crews responded to a small hot spot, which surfaced due to the increased heat from the day, which Peachland Fire and Rescue crews quickly overhauled and mopped up.

There are no remaining evacuation orders. A detailed map showing properties on Alert can be found at cordemergency.ca/map.

Residents in the Alert areas should be prepared to leave their home at a moment’s notice. They should pre-register with Emergency Support Services (ESS) online at ess.gov.bc.ca, make arrangements for pets and pack essential items such as medicines and important documents.

An area restriction order remains in place in the vicinity of the wildfire. The order restricts access to public land, including for recreation activity such as hiking, bike, or ATV riding, but does not apply to private/residential properties. A detailed description of the Area Restriction Order is available on the BC Wildfire information bulletin. A map indicating the boundaries of the restriction is available on the Area Restriction Map.

Motorists are reminded to not stop along the highway to observe or take photos of the wildfire and to allow crews to safely do their work. Motorists are to follow the direction of highway crews and can check Drive BC for the latest information on traffic impacts.

Anyone who witnesses any spot fires threatening homes or other areas showing rapid growth should call 9-1-1 immediately, and fire crews will be directed to that area.0

Central Okanagan evacuees can find out more about Emergency Support Services by calling 250-469-8512 or by visiting the Central Okanagan ESS Reception Centre at 1480 Sutherland Avenue, Kelowna, open from noon to 6 p.m. today and tomorrow, Tuesday August 31.

For more information on the Mount Law wildfire, visit cordemergency.ca or the BC Wildfire Service website, sign up for e-updates, follow Central Okanagan Emergency Operations social media channels at facebook.com/cordemergency or twitter.com/CO_emerg, or call the information line at 250-469-8490.