Man attacked by grizzly bear was Summit Lake firefighter, escapes with ‘mostly minor injuries’

FORT NELSON, B.C. —  A firefighter working in the Fort Nelson fire zone survived a bear attack with “mostly minor injuries.” 

On July 4th, at around 11 a.m., a firefighter was attacked by wildlife while working on the Summit Lake wildfire near Fort Nelson. 

Emily Baker, an information assistant with the BCWS, explained a firefighter crew leader was charged by a grizzly bear after encountering her and her two cubs.

“[Thinking quickly, he used] a firefighting hand tool for defence while yelling for help, potentially [preventing] a worse outcome,” Baker said. 

“Other nearby crew members rushed to the scene, started chainsaws and yelling to scare the bear and her cubs away.”

Baker explained the crew began first aid treatment immediately, and the individual was medically evacuated to hospital. 

The firefighter was released later the same day with “mostly minor injuries,” according to Baker.

“This encounter is a good reminder of the ever-present safety challenges faced by wildland firefighters every day, and we will continue to ensure that our crews are trained for the realities of working in remote areas in British Columbia.”

The Summit Lake blaze was one of three ‘wildfires of note’ in B.C. last month, which means it was highly visible or posed a threat to public safety.

Discovered in late May, the fire prompted evacuation notices and closed a portion of Highway 97 during June. It has burned more than 80,800 hectares so far. 

It is now ‘being held,’ which means it is expected to remain within the current perimeter, control line or boundary.