Wildfire Management Branch is asking the public to refrain from entering the area where the Mt. McAllister wildfire is currently burning.

Wildfire Management Branch personnel often use Forest Service roads to access and action wildfires. There has recently been increased public traffic on these roads, including attempts by the public to access areas where the wildfire is burning.

When the public enters an area of active wildfire during suppression operations they put themselves, wildfire crews, and others at risk. The top priority of the Wildfire Management Branch is the safety of firefighting personnel and the public. Areas of active wildfire suppression contain multiple potential hazards to the public, including danger trees, heavy equipment use, and unstable temporary access routes and fire guards.

When the public enters an area subject to active fire suppression, they create a delay in fire suppression activities and could lead to further fire growth and the possibility of putting more values and people at risk. Safe fire suppression efforts depend on the support and understanding of the public.

A map of the current Area Restriction Order can be found at: http://bit.ly/1uf9s1S

To report a wildfire or unattended campfire, call 1 800 663-5555 toll-free or *5555 on a cellphone. For the latest information on current wildfire activity, burning restrictions, road closures and air quality advisories, go to: http://www.bcwildfire.ca

You can also follow the latest wildfire news:

On Twitter at: http://twitter.com/BCGovFireInfo
On Facebook at: http://facebook.com/BCForestFireInfo

Media Contacts:

Kelsey Winter
On-site Fire Information Officer
Wildfire Management Branch
Mt. McAllister Wildfire
250 318-7456