Oliver Fire Chief Dan Skaros gives BC Premier Christy Clark a big hug during her visit to Oliver today to talk about the wildfires. At right is Deputy Fire Chief Bob Graham. Photo by Lyonel Doherty
BC Premier Christy Clark stopped in Oliver today to personally thank firefighters for risking their safety to save the community from two wildfires.
Clark shook the hand of members of the Oliver Fire Department and their families during a quick visit to the community centre, where members of Town council and emergency social services were gathered.
When Clark reached Fire Chief Dan Skaros at the end of the line, he immediately said, “I’m a hugger,” and gave the premier a big one.
Clark then personally thanked Dan’s wife, Karen, for giving up her husband during the crisis.
“Thanks for everyone coming together. It is times like this in BC that we know what we’re made of. We’re so lucky to have these volunteers,” the premier said.
But Clark expressed her disappointment upon learning that forestry aircraft were grounded south of Oliver because of a drone (flying robot that takes photographs) in the area.
The premier said when drones halt firefighting efforts, people may be losing their homes. So she urged people not to use them in areas where air crews are working.
Clark spoke to members of Town council about educating people on the hazards of throwing cigarette butts out the window or idling their mufflers in dry grass.
Fire update
The regional district reported that 260 homes were evacuated from Wilson Mountain, but residents were allowed back in their homes on Saturday.
This fire started at the south side of Wilson Mountain Road and travelled south towards the Town of Oliver.
One structure was damaged by fire.
FortisBC has been on site assessing the damage to transmission equipment. Residents dealing with power outages can contact FortisBC at 1-866-436-7847 or visit www.fortisbc.com for estimated time power may be re-established.
In the Testalinden Creek fire, 100 homes remain under evacuation order, including the Spotted Lake and Kilpoola areas, and parts of the western side of Highway 97 north of Osoyoos.
This fire started at Testalinden Creek, travelled south adjacent to the valley bottom and higher elevation to Kilpoola Estates at Richter Pass
One structure was damaged by fire.
Emergency Social Services at Oliver Community Centre had a quiet evening last night. It remains open to assist any property owners affected by either fire. Residents who have not done so are asked to register in person at the Oliver Community Centre.
People who have to be evacuated should gather essential items such as medications, eyeglasses, valuable papers (i.e. insurance), immediate care needs for dependents and, if you choose, keepsakes (photographs, etc.). Have these items readily available for quick departure.
If you have pets or livestock, make arrangements to move them to a safe area.
Information will be posted and updated regularly at: http://www.rdos.bc.ca/news-events/eoc/current-eoc/
On Saturday the Wilson Mountain fire was estimated at 317 hectares. The fire is smouldering with minimal open flame. However, there were reports today of flare-ups on the north flank above the Sportsmens Bowl Road area
The BC Wildfire Service reported that 29 Wilson Mountain firefighters established a guard around portions of the perimeter. These crews were supported by four helicopters.
The Testalinden Creek fire has burned more than 1,560 hectares. Air tankers, six helicopters and 95 firefighters worked on the blaze Saturday. Crews expect to remain overnight to monitor both fires.
Evacuation information is available by visiting www.rdos.bc.ca or by calling 250-492-0237.
Campfire and open burning bans remain in effect. To report a fire or a burning violation, call 1-800-663-5555.
By Lyonel Doherty
BC Premier Christy Clark shares a laugh with Town of Oliver officials, including Deputy Corporate Officer Linda Schultz, left, and Councillor Maureen Doerr. Photo by Lyonel Doherty
Premier Christy Clark talks about the fires that threatened the Town of Oliver during a quick visit today. Photo by Lyonel Doherty
