Jitters at Sparkling Hill

Vernon's fire chief Keith Green joined B.C. forestry officials at the site of the Kokanee Road fire Monday, where hot spots were still being put out and a response team was dealing with an old unexploded ordinance from the area's military past.

At its peak early Saturday evening, dozens of ground crew and up to 11 air tankers fought the fast moving wildfire that threatened 45 houses in Sunset Properties.

A 60 kilometre an hour wind was blowing the fire south towards Predator Ridge.

“When these things take off and you get the wind that we had, we were fortunate the wind died down for us later on in the evening, because it could have turned out...I mean it was headed toward Sparkling Hill, Predator Ridge in a hurry,” said Green.

Candling trees from the fire could be seen from the resort's golf course.

Such was the concern at the exclusive Sparking Hill Resort that a fire crew was stationed up there for a time.

“Our guys were up at Sparkling Hill right after the call providing a presence for the guests. Obviously there was significant concern for the people who were staying there. They were watching this large orange glow head towards them and lots of smoke.”

The crew moved to the fire lines once there was containment on the south flank, Green said.

The fire chief praised his firefighters and ground crews from the Ministry of Forests for their efforts but his highest thanks went to those flying air tankers, choppers and skimmers that contained the fire line and dumped water from above.

“Our neighbourhoods, especially out towards the lake, are surrounded by the interface. Ten years ago, you might fight one of these a year.

"That's why our FireSmart program is important, for people to understand they have a role to play in helping FireSmart their community,” Green said.

Photo: Isaiah C.