BCWS places area restriction around Ainslie Creek wildfire

The BC Wildfire Service has placed an area restriction around the Ainslie Creek wildfire as crews battle the out of control blaze.

The area restriction came into effect at 12 p.m. on Friday (Aug 14) and will remain in effect until Aug. 31, unless it is otherwise lifted earlier.

“This area restriction is being implemented to address public and responder safety and limit public interference in areas where fire suppression activities are taking place,” said the BCWS.

“Please note that the affected area spans portions of both the Coastal Fire Centre and the Kamloops Fire Centre.”

Only those meet the following criteria can enter the restricted area:

• Travelling in an official capacity.
• Supporting wildfire suppression.
• Travelling to or from their principal residence (as long as it is not under an evacuation order).
• Travelling to or from their private or leased property to access their secondary residence or recreational property (as long as it is not under an evacuation order).
• Using a highway.
• Participating/engaging in agricultural activities.

You can find a map of the restricted area at the top of this article.

The BCWS said violating the area restriction could result in a fine of up to $1,150

The fire, which is estimated to to have burned across 64,673.62 hectares (about 647 square kilometres), is believed to have been sparked by human activity.

In Merritt, residents are ready in case the situation escalates after more evacuation alerts were issued nearby as a result of the growing wildfire.

On the east side of the fire, closest to Merritt, BCWS crews are taking advantage of some rain that fell on the region overnight.

Crews and equipment are having success working to extend a guard from the Edgar FSR to the Hooshum FSR in order to prevent growth to the south,” said the BCWS.

“Crews are also preparing and planning for a second ignition south and west of the previous block. This will only occur when conditions allow it to be conducted safely.”