Cameron River area residents asked to evacuate

FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. – The Peace River Regional District issued an Evacuation Order For the Cameron River area Monday evening.

The order is in effect for Upper Halfway Road from Cameron River to Lexau Ranch due to the 352-hectare fire.

An Evacuation Alert was also issued for areas south of Halfway River between Kobes Creek and Ground Birch Creek.

Evacuees are advised to head to Chetwynd to register for Emergency Support Services (ESS). Those travelling to Chetwynd must use the Haystack Forest Service Road and the Beryl Prairie Road.

The ESS center is at the Chetwynd Rec Center, 4512 N Access Rd, Chetwynd, BC. If the center is closed, call 250-556-4173, and for anyone needing a hotel, they will be diverted to Prince George.

Anyone needing transportation assistance is asked to call  1-800-670-7773.

The PRRD also recommends the following for those evacuating:

• Shut off all gas and electrical appliances other than refrigerators and freezers;
• Close and lock all windows;
• Gather family members and take a neighbour or someone needing transportation if possible;
• Do not use more vehicles than needed;
• Take critical items (medicine, purse, wallet, cell and charger and keys);
• Take pets in pet kennels or on leashes.