Image Credit: CFJC Today / Kent Simmonds

By Dave Barry

Wildfire

Wildfire near Merritt leads to Evacuation Alert

Apr 19, 2021 | 5:06 AM

KAMLOOPS – More than twenty homes northwest of Merritt are the subject of an Evacuation Alert.

The homes are threatened by the Petit Creek wildfire, which grew to 100 hectares yesterday under windy conditions. The BC Wildfire Service (BCWS) says 23 firefighters and two helicopters battled the fire Sunday. Efforts are underway to build road access into the area to allow for more resources to attack the blaze.

The BCWS says the fire is located approximately 18 kilometres northeast of Merritt and is likely human-caused.

The Thompson Nicola Regional District (TNRD) says the affected homes are in the Miller Estates Subdivision and the small community of Canford.

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An Evacuation Alert is issued to provide residents to make the necessary preparations in case they are ordered to leave their homes later. That includes:

• Having a plan to transport all family members or co-workers outside of the area, should the area be brought under evacuation order.

• Keeping essential items readily available for a quick departure; including medications, eyeglasses, valuable papers (i.e. insurance), immediate care needs for dependents and, if you choose, keepsakes (photographs, etc).

• Ensuring that any dependents are prepared for departure.

• Moving pets and livestock to a safe area.

• Ensuring that you have accommodation options for your family, if possible. A Reception Centre will be made available if required.

The TNRD Evacuation Alert can be viewed by clicking here.

There are 13 active fires burning in the the Kamloops Forest District. The largest is the Spahomin Creek fire at 500 hectares. It’s located south of Douglas Lake. It is not threatening any homes at this time.

Image Credit: TNRD – Evacuation Alert – Miller Estates Subdivision

Image Credit: TNRD – Evacuation Alert – Canford