Drivers warned not to stop on highway to view Penticton wildfire

Apparently, boaters aren’t the only drivers who need to take care around wildfire fighting operations.

The Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure erected signage on Highway 97 south of Penticton yesterday, Aug.20, warning motorists not to stop to take photos of the Christie Mountain wildfire on the highway for six kilometres south of the city.

Ministry of Transportation media spokesperson Danielle Pope says the sign was placed to discourage people from creating unsafe situations by parking along the highway to take photos.

"Our maintenance contractor and ministry area managers have been driving through the area and noticed such behaviours in the last few days. The public is asked to obey all signs and check with Drive B.C. for updates," Pope said in an email.

The warning comes two days after the Christie Mountain wildfire ignited on the east side of Skaha Lake.

The wildfire has become a roadside attraction, with dozens of motorists stopping to take in the view.

Highway 97 between Penticton and Okanagan Falls was the scene of two collisions yesterday, Aug. 19, one involving a semi-trailer spilling a load of lumber on Waterman’s Hill, and another near Larch Avenue in Kaleden, according to 911 dispatch records.

Boaters on Skaha Lake have been repeatedly warned over the past couple of days to stay well clear of firefighting operations and aircraft using the lake.

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