(Image Credit: Thompson-Nicola Regional District)
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TNRD opens free appliance disposal from returning Pear Lake wildfire evacuees

Aug 15, 2026 | 10:38 AM

CLINTON, B.C. — The Thompson-Nicola Regional District (TNRD) is accepting fridges and freezers at the Clinton Eco-Depot for free from properties that were evacuated due to the Pear Lake wildfire.

“Fridges and freezers do not need to be cleaned out, but please ensure that these appliances are properly sealed before being brought to the Clinton Eco-Depot for disposal,” said the TNRD.

Those who cannot move their appliances on their own can take advantage of curbside collection in the days ahead.

The Village of Clinton will have curbside collection on Wednesday (Aug.19). Residents are asked to have their fridges and freezers set out by 7 a.m. on the morning of collection day.

Those in properties outside of Clinton (i.e. Chasm, Big Bar Lake, Meadow Lake, Highway 97, Clinton-Pavilion Road) can call the TNRD at 250-377-7188 if you cannot dispose of your fridge or freezer yourself.

The TNRD said collection of appliances for rural properties will happen on Thursday (Aug. 20) and may occur on the following days as needed.

“As of late afternoon on Friday, August 14, 2026, the Major Appliance Recycling Roundtable (MARR), has confirmed to the TNRD that costs will be covered for this collection program,” said TNRD officials.

“MARR is the non-profit stewardship agency that oversees recycling of appliances, and the TNRD greatly appreciates the funding providing by this agency to make this program possible for residents who are returning home from the Pear Lake wildfire.”

If you do not need to dispose of you appliances, the TNRD asks that you double bag spoiled food and throw it out as regular garbage, ensuring you use personal protective equipment such as N-95 masks and rubber gloves while cleaning.

The TNRD has a guide on cleaning your appliances on their website.

The TNRD and Village of Clinton downgraded an evacuation order to an alert for approximately 373 properties at 8 a.m. on Saturday (Aug. 15).