Lyonel Doherty
Times-Chronicle
Wildfire crews battling the Nk-Mip Creek fire between Oliver and Osoyoos are “amazed” at the public support being shown for their efforts.
Information officer Dani McIntosh told the Times-Chronicle that this support is boosting morale on the front lines.
“There is a lot of amazing support from the public with donations (of food, etc.). This gratitude is not going unnoticed.”
But McIntosh said crews have everything they need right now and she encourages any additional donations go to the emergency operation centre to help people impacted by evacuation orders.
She pointed out that BC Wildfire is keeping crews upbeat by staging fun activities. For example, there is a photo competition where firefighters can win prizes for the best photographs of the fire.
McIntosh said a new fire camp is being set up for crews at the Oliver Airport, but she urged the public to stay away from the area in order to respect their privacy and downtime.
The Town of Oliver is also asking people to stay clear of Airport Street, noting that traffic should be kept to essential use only.
McIntosh said BC Wildfire is still trying to get an accurate measurement of the fire, but is estimating the size to be 13,000 hectares. She noted that four additional personnel from Australia have been brought in to help local crews. This brings the total to 136 wildfire personnel, 46 structural protection personnel, 26 pieces of heavy equipment and five helicopters.
McIntosh said their goal is to keep the fire within its boundaries and strengthen/build containment lines in the Sidley Road area. Structural protection also continues on Mt. Baldy and Shrike Hill.
She noted there is a chance of some precipitation this weekend, but expressed concern about potential thunderstorms and dry lightning.
