(Image Credit: Columbia Shuswap Regional District)
Brush Fire Extinguished

Falkland’s new wildland firefighting truck put to use dousing Highway 97 brush fire

Aug 7, 2026 | 12:26 PM

FALKLAND B.C. — Just one hour after their new wildland firefighting truck was delivered, the Falkland Fire Department put it to use dousing a brush fire along Highway 97.

The Columbia Shuswap Regional District (CSRD) said strong winds from a passing cold front on Saturday (Aug. 1) knocked down power lines along the highway, setting off a grass fire.

Flames quickly jumped the road and spread into the dry vegetation.

The fire’s ignition coincided with the same night the devastating Bradley Creek wildfire broke out.

That day, Falkland Fire Chief Troy Richard delivered the new wildland firefighting truck to the fire hall from the manufacturer in the Lower Mainland.

The CSRD said the new Wildland 3 truck was in its new parking spot for just one hour when the call came in and crews jumped into action.

The new truck played a central role in ensuring the small brush fire did not spread into another destructive wildfire.

Firefighters praised their new vehicle, noting its increased water capacity, high clearance and pump-and-roll capability helped the team quickly douse the flames.

“Sometimes timing is everything,” says Derek Sutherland, the CSRD’s general manager of community and protective services.

“We are proud of the Falkland Fire Department’s quick response and professionalism. And we are so glad this new tool is helping them to do their job even more effectively than before.”

The CSRD said the new truck was purchased in the spring, and selected to meet the Falkland Fire Protection Area’s needs. The vehicle was also modified to be used year-round, even in the winter.

The new Wildland 3 at the manufacturer's before delivery.
The new Wildland 3 at the manufacturer’s before delivery. (Image Credit: Columbia Shuswap Regional District)