Doig River First Nation members allowed to return home

FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. – The evacuation order for Doig River First Nation has been rescinded, allowing its members to return home as of 11:30 a.m. on Monday.

The DRFN’s Emergency Operations Centre announced the decision on Facebook, noting that an evacuation alert remains in place so residents are prepared in case they have to leave again.

The Peace River Regional District has also rescinded its evacuation order for the Doig River area, replacing it with an alert.

According to the EOC’s update, BC Wildfire Service continues to “make great progress” on the fire, which is “stable.”

The fire, discovered Sunday, May 12th, is being held at 650 hectares in size.

Despite the wildfire risk decreasing due to the weather and the work of firefighters, crews will remain in the area to monitor and fight the fire.

The EOC asked for patience from members as they remove fire safety equipment in the community over the coming days.

“We appreciate everyone’s support and patience as the responders and Emergency Operations continue to work in hopes of making this return home as seamless as possible,” read the centre’s update.

The team is working to get additional gas cards for those returning home. Members needing additional supports are asked to reach out to Teree Walton of the health and social development team.

Doig Road has been cleared between Milligan Creek Road and Siphon Creek Road.