Bear forces BC Wildfire crews to leave camp near Lillooet

There are many hazards firefighters face while they’re out battling flames in the backcountry, including wildlife which sometimes can get a little too close.

The BC Wildfire Service says its members were forced to leave a fire camp near Gold Bridge, located west of Cache Creek, Wednesday night because of “persistent bear activity within and around the camp.”

The personnel housed at the camp are assigned to the Downton Lake wildfire near Lillooet.

“Approximately 160 personnel travelled to Lillooet where they are presently hosted at T’it’q’et First Nation and Lillooet municipality facilities,” the BC Wildfire Service explains.

It notes conservation officers are “assessing and advising on plans” to get members back into “an appropriate location to continue working toward objectives on the Downton Lake wildfire.”

Conservations offers are assessing and advising on plans to safely return personnel to an appropriate location to continue working toward objectives on the Downton Lake wildfire. Further updates will be provided as they are available.

— BC Wildfire Service (@BCGovFireInfo) August 31, 2023

The Downton Lake fire, which was discovered on July 13, was an estimated 9,506 hectares as of Wednesday morning, according to the BC Wildfire Service’s website.

Caused by lightning, the blaze remains classified as out of control.

The BC Wildfire Service says the fire “took variable amounts of precipitation” earlier this week, with more rain expected.

“Fire activity remains low on both wildfires of the Bendor Range Complex,” the service added.

“BC Wildfire Service is deeply grateful to its partners, including the T’it’q’et First Nation, Lillooet municipality and the Lillooet Tribal Council, for generously sharing facilities, expertise and insight and extending a warm welcome to all fire suppression personnel in the area.”