Photo: Jamie Svendsen

This July 15 file photo shows aggressive fire near 150 Mile House.

The weather has cooperated with crews fighting the wildfires in the Cariboo region and fireguards are being built around some of the more active fires, according to Big White Fire Chief Jamie Svendsen.

“I've seen some really agressive fire activity that lasted several days,” said Svendsen, who's been working in 100 Mile House, 108 Mile House, 150 Mile House and the Spokin Lake fires since July 9th. “The weather has been cooperating the last few days and crews are working extremely hard building fire guards around these fires.”

Svendsen, who works on call for the Office of the Fire Commissioner, said four Big White firefighters were working with dozens of others on structural protection crews in the region.

“We've still got lots of crews in the Cariboo, especially between Williams Lake and 150 Mile House.”

He said dozens of engines and tenders from all over B.C. were involved in firefighting in that section of the Cariboo region.

Fire officials have expressed some concern that strong winds could boost the flames once again.

Thousands of people remain evacuated from their homes.

While Svendsen said he's still amazed by how fast a wildfire can spread, he has seen similar occurences in the Okanagan, pointing to the 2015 Rock Creek wildfire that destroyed dozens of homes.

Svendsen expects to be heading back to the Okanagan Monday but he had high praise for Cariboo firefighters and the volunteers who were keeping them going.

“These communities have really pulled together. We have firefighters evacuated from their homes, living in firehalls and protecting other people's properties. And the ladies who are providing food, the hospitality has been amazing. They appreciate everything you do.”

As well, Svendsen praised the professionalism of firefighters who had left their own towns and families to fight the Cariboo wildfires.

"They are working long hours with no complaints. There are guys here working to save structures in communities, such as 150 Mile House, and they are working around the clock....We are very fortunate to have them."