The BC Wildfire Service is responding to the Beards Creek wildfire, located approximately 5 kilometres north of Parson and Hwy 95, and approximately 34 kilometres southeast of Golden.

The fire is producing a large column of smoke this afternoon. It is highly visible from Hwy 95, Hwy 1, Parson and the surrounding area.

The fire is currently estimated to be 20 hectares in size. Seven BC Wildfire Service personnel are on site, with the aid of three helicopters. This fire is not impacting any communities or structures at this time. It is burning in steep and difficult terrain that is unsafe for crews to action directly.

The fire is a modified response fire. This means it is managed using a combination of suppression techniques, including direct and indirect attack, and monitoring to steer, contain and otherwise manage fire activity within pre-determined perimeters. This type of response is used to minimize costs and/or damage, and to maximize benefits from the fire. 

The Southeast Fire Centre extends from the U.S. border in the south to Mica Dam in the north, and from the Okanagan Highlands and Monashee Mountains in the west to the B.C.-Alberta border in the east.

Report a wildfire or open burning violation by calling 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

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