Firefighters from Columbia Valley Rural Fire & Rescue and the Radium Fire Department responded to a wildfire near Edgewater on Sunday afternoon with support from the BC Wildfire Service.
“The BC Wildfire Service had a helicopter bucketing along with a spotter on scene immediately, which was a tremendous help in knocking it down,” said Columbia Valley Rural Fire & Rescue Chief Drew Sinclair. “Our firefighters immediately began actioning the fire and have had continued bucketing support from BC Wildfire. Once the bucketing operations are complete, we will move back in and complete the final mop up.”
A total of 15 firefighters responded, including six from Edgewater, four from Windermere and five from the Radium Fire Department.
Sinclair also praised Edgewater residents for their quick response and willingness to help.
“We want to thank all the residents who offered up equipment and assistance this afternoon. In these tinder dry conditions and with the potential for strong wind gusts, this early assistance made a tremendous difference on this call.”
Officials are reminding residents that additional wildfire starts remain possible following two nights of lightning and thunderstorms across the Columbia Valley.
Anyone who sees smoke or a wildfire is asked to call the BC Wildfire Service at 1-800-663-5555, dial *5555 from a mobile phone or report it through the BC Wildfire app.
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