Bald Range wildfire area restriction rescinded

BC Wildfire Service has rescinded the area restriction order that had been in place around the Bald Range wildfire since Aug. 29.

In an update issued Friday afternoon, the service said fire behaviour and activity had declined enough that firefighters no longer needed to restrict public access. The wildfire remains an active incident, however, and people entering the area are being urged to remain vigilant.

The service said the fire area remains an active work site despite the lifting of the restriction. Officials retain authority under the Wildfire Act to order people to leave the area if necessary.

BC Wildfire Service warned of damaged and unstable trees, hot ash pits that may have no visible flames, and falling-debris hazards. Residents and visitors may continue to see smoke in the coming weeks. Smoke rising within the fire perimeter or from burned material is considered normal, but the service asked anyone who sees smoke coming from green, unburned vegetation to report it.