A quiet night on the fire line

Cooler temperatures and low wind overnight have provided ideal conditions for fire fighters monitoring the still active Trepanier forest fire.

Fire crews easily snuffed out a few minor flare ups found during overnight patrols and report a quiet night on the fire front.

The Unified Command, involving BC Wildfire Management and local structural fire departments, will be determining today’s plan of action in the continuing effort to contain the blaze. The fire remains at 200-hectares and it is 75% contained.

There are still 416 people out of their homes on Evacuation Order.  These residents may receive assistance with food, lodging and clothing by visiting the Emergency Support Services reception centre at the Westbank Lions Community Hall, 2466 Main Street in West Kelowna.  Volunteers will be on hand to help starting at 9:00 a.m. today.

A detailed map showing all Evacuation Order and Alert areas can be viewed here.

School District No. 23 advises Peachland Elementary School will remain closed this morning.  Students are directed to attend George Pringle Elementary School gymnasium at 8:30 this morning.  For more details and specific information regarding bussing arrangements please visit the School District website.

More than 1,100 Peachland residents were allowed to return home last night after the Evacuation Order was lifted for their streets.  They remain on Evacuation Alert and should be prepared to leave with short notice if conditions change.

Those returning to the area are reminded that hazardous conditions may still exist on private properties.  The public is requested to stay out of fire-affected areas for their own safety.