Department of Community Services
2008 - Yukon Wildfire Bulletins
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Current Fire Danger Ratings Wildfire Bulletin #20 July 02, 2008 - 10:15 AM Airtankers Deployed to Northern British Columbia Both Yukon airtanker groups have been deployed to northern British Columbia to assist with that provinces current fire situation. On Saturday the Firecats aircraft were sent to Fort St. John and immediately began actioning fires and this morning the DC-6 group is being dispatched to Smithers. “We are going to see a down trend in our weather over the next few days so that is why we’ve been able to meet British Columbia’s request for resources,” said Yukon Duty Officer Mike Sparks. “Over the past 24 hours the Klondike district has received 40 millimeters of rain and Old Crow has received 20.” The Yukon airtankers can be deployed to British Columbia through Canada’s Mutual Aid Resource Sharing Agreement (MARS). Under the agreement resources can be recalled on 24 hours notice. “These airtankers have been sent to Northern B.C, therefore they can quickly return to the Yukon if necessary,” said Sparks. “We’re confident with our weather forecast that won’t be necessary.” Over the past 24 hours the Prince George Fire Centre, which covers Fort St. John has received 14 new fires, while the Northwest Fire Centre, covering Smithers has received 6. Meanwhile, there have been no new fires reported in the Yukon in the past 36 hours. The public is reminded that a burning permit is required to burn grass, brush or debris in the territory between April 1 and September 30. Permits will be suspended when the fire danger rating is moderate or higher. Wildland Fire Management would also like to thank the public for their continued cooperation in reporting wildfires. -30- For Yukon Wildfire updates, call 1-800-826-4750 Current Fire Danger Ratings |