Area restriction for Elephant Hill wildfire is rescinded

KAMLOOPS – The Elephant Hill Wildfire area restriction has been rescinded.

An area restriction was issued around the Elephant Hill wildfire, north of Ashcroft, to protect public safety and conduct firefighting operations, however, the B.C. Wildfire Service no longer needs to restrict access, according to a release issued yesterday, Sept. 29.

Despite the area restriction being lifted, the Elephant Hill fire is still an active worksite. Rehabilitation efforts are ongoing so the B.C. Wildfire Services would like hunters and people who are going to use the area recreationally to use extreme caution in the vicinity of the fire. Under the Wildfire Act, officials can still order anyone to leave the area if necessary.

Due to wildfire activity, there may be hazards present, warns B.C. Wildfire Service. Areas affected by wildfires may have trees that are damaged that have become unstable and could fall down. Also, ash pits can be hard to detect and can remain hot long after the flames have died down, according to the release.

The Elephant Hill fire is 100 per cent contained, however, nearby communities might see smoke within the perimeter over the next few weeks. B.C. Wildfire Service says this is normal with large wildfires. They expect the smoke to continue until the region receives significant rainfall or snowfall. There are no evacuation orders or alerts for properties in the area.

If you see smoke within a fire's perimeter, where it is surrounded by black, burned material, Fire Information Officers say this is typically not a concern. If you see smoke rising from outside a fire's perimeter, in green or unburned areas, you should report the smoke immediately.

To report a wildfire, unattended campfire or open burning violation, call *5555 on a cell phone or 1-800-663-5555 toll-free. For the latest information on current wildfire activity, burning restrictions, road closures and air quality advisories, click here.

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