Shuswap locals join BC Wildfire Service on the front line
CTV
Locals from the Shuswap area are now joining BC Wildfire Service crews on the front lines after taking part in a recognized training program.
Locals from the Shuswap area are now joining BC Wildfire Service crews on the front lines after taking part in a recognized training program.
The move comes more than a week after the Adams Complex fires tore through the area, also sparking days of tensions. Locals said they felt abandoned, while fire officials were accusing residents of stealing firefighting equipment.
On Sunday a food truck operator from Scotch Creek posted a video to Instagram featuring fire information officer Mike McCulley, with a request to locals to join forces with the BC Wildfire Service.
“We need your expertise, we need your local knowledge,” McCulley said in the video. “We’re trying to put the past behind and throw down the gauntlet a little bit and build some trust between us and we need you to come work for us.”
During Monday’s update from the Columbia Shuswap Regional District, McCulley confirmed community members had taken part in a recognized training program which allows them to work alongside the BC Wildfire Service. At least 17 residents were working with crews on Monday, with more expected on Tuesday.
They joined a team of more than 250 wildland firefighters working in the area Monday, including a crew from South Africa, as well as 97 structure protection personnel and 17 helicopters.
“The local community and the local government took a great initiative here to try to work with us a little bit by getting that training done,” he said. “Bringing the locals in and really having them coming to get together to support our effort - we’re very, very grateful for it.”