Doug Donaldson, Minister of Forests, BC Wildfire Service and Emergency Management BC gave an update on the 2020 wildfire season in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Jody Lucius, representative for the BC Wildfire Service, said that so far BC has had a slightly below average fire activity for the spring.
Since April 1, they’ve responded to 139 fires across the province, five of which are currently burning but are classified as under control. The average for this time of year is 172 fires.
Donaldson said that, although it’s too soon to know what kind of fire season is coming, “we’re ready.”
“We have the funding, the expertise and the people to deal with what’s in store,” he added.
He explained that after unprecedented fire seasons in 2017 and 2018, BC has made significant investments into firefighting operations.
Air pollution can irritate the lungs, cause inflammation, and alter immune function, making it more difficult to fight respiratory infections including #COVID19. With wildfire season around the corner, now is the time to prepare: https://t.co/fIlMTWnKkH pic.twitter.com/YBhWLjRkaE
— BCCDC (@CDCofBC) April 27, 2020
Donaldson mentioned the $136 million that was allocated for direct wildfire costs for 2020-21 seasons, which will ensure we have access to the “most appropriate” resources and equipment.
This year, for example, BC has increased the amount of air support available to crews, including 20 air tankers and eight bird dog helicopters.
After extensive damage was done in the province due to wildfires in past years, an independent report was released with recommendations on how to improve operations.
Donaldson said that they’ve implemented about 90% of those recommendations to date.
Even as the province works on improving wildfire response, people are reminded that it’s more important than ever to follow rules and regulations so that firefighters aren’t put at risk due to “completely avoidable” human caused wildfires.
“Especially this year, we’re all in this together,” said Donaldson.
The extensive damage resulting from the 2017 Elephant Hill wildfire is a stark reminder that everyone must use caution & be responsible when participating in outdoor activities to help protect the communities & landscapes of B.C.
— BC Wildfire Service (@BCGovFireInfo) May 4, 2020
Learn more: https://t.co/lJBIWlmKkd #BCWildfire pic.twitter.com/ScklJqOgr6
The BC Wildfire Service has remained open and operational during the pandemic, and will continue to do so.
Lucius says that they have put different measures in place to protect firefighters and they communities they serve.
For example, professional grade hand washing stations will be available in fire camps, and they are moving away from multi-person tents.
For more information, click here.
If you get value from KelownaNow and believe local independent media is important to our community we ask that you please consider subscribing to our daily newsletter.
If you appreciate what we do, we ask that you consider supporting our local independent news platform.
