Effective at 4 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 29, 2017, the area restriction that’s been in place around the Elephant Hill wildfire north of Ashcroft was rescinded. The BC Wildfire Service no longer needs to restrict access to the area to protect public safety or conduct its firefighting operations.

The BC Wildfire Service reminds members of the public that the Elephant Hill fire is still an active worksite and rehabilitation efforts are ongoing. Hunters and recreationalists are urged to use extreme caution in the vicinity of the fire. Even if an area restriction has been rescinded, officials have the authority under the Wildfire Act and its regulations to order anyone to leave the area if necessary.

Before entering areas that have been affected by wildfire, members of the public should be aware that there may be significant safety hazards present. Trees that have been damaged by fire might be unstable and could fall down. Ash pits can be hard to detect and can remain hot long after the flames have died down.

With the Elephant Hill fire now under control and 100% contained, nearby communities can still expect to see smoke within the perimeter over the coming weeks. This is common with large wildfires and will continue until the region receives significant rainfall or snowfall. If smoke is seen coming from well within a fire’s perimeter and the area is surrounded by black, burned material, this is typically not a concern. However, smoke rising from green, unburned fuel or from outside a fire’s perimeter should be reported immediately.

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

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