Doig River evacuation order maintained amid safety concerns

FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. — Doig River First Nation’s evacuation order is still in effect for now, but that decision will be reviewed daily.

According to an update posted to the First Nation’s Facebook page, wildfire conditions have improved, but there are still concerns.

“The first aspect is that BC Wildfire Services is not confident of the safety levels yet,” the update reads. 

“The hot spot in the area is still close to the band office while the fire continues to burn on the northeast side of the fire.”

Smoke and accessibility concerns affecting the safety of the area for both residents and emergency responders are also being considered by the First Nation’s Emergency Operations Centre, Chief and Council.

“Currently, there is a significant amount of hoses and systems hooked into Doig River infrastructure,” the announcement continues. 

“The issue is if they get ran over, tampered with or damaged, it would slow down any response in an emergency situation. “

The First Nation was evacuated Monday, May 13th, due to a wildfire that remains 650 hectares in size.

The BCWS says the fire is currently “being held,” meaning it’s expected to stay within its current boundaries.

The Peace River Regional District also issued its own evacuation order for the area on May 13th.

Evacuees are also being reminded that Emergency Social Support (ESS) services will still be available at the North Peace Arena in Fort St. John on Friday, May 17th, from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.