FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
District of Clearwater Responds to Jasper Evacuees and Wildfire Incidents
Clearwater, BC, July 24, 2024 – The District of Clearwater has been actively involved in providing support and ensuring safety for evacuees from Jasper and addressing local wildfire incidents over the past two days.
Emergency Operations Centre Activation
On July 23, at 12:30 AM, the District of Clearwater’s Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) was activated to assist evacuees from Jasper. The EOC provided essential information on services and managed traffic control for those traveling through the community. The EOC operations concluded at 5:30 AM after successfully implementing traffic control measures.
Community and Business Response
In response to the influx of evacuees, numerous local businesses opened early to provide necessary services to those displaced. This community effort resulted in a significant increase in patronage throughout the day, showcasing the resilience and supportiveness of Clearwater’s business community.
Wildfire Response
The BC Wildfire Service contacted the District to investigate a reported spot fire near the local ski hill and 0.5 km from the boundary of the District. Although the fire was outside Clearwater’s boundaries, the Interim CAO authorized the Fire Department to respond. Fire crews arrived on scene at approximately 1:30 PM and continued firefighting efforts until 8:30 PM.
Additionally, the Fire Department investigated another fire near Road 2, approximately 7 km from the district boundary. Interfor deployed a bulldozer to build a fire guard and skidder-tanker to manage the fire on July 24, and efforts are ongoing today.
Water Conservation Alert
An alert was broadcast via the Voyent Alert system advising residents to conserve water due to the firefighting efforts impacting town reservoirs. Clearwater Fire staff also attended the fire near the ski hill today to remove hazard trees and extinguish smoldering old-growth trees. Their work concluded successfully, and the fire has been “mopped up.”
Community Vigilance and Preparedness
The swift actions of the EOC, local businesses, and fire crews have ensured the safety and well-being of Clearwater residents and visitors. The District recommends that residents remain vigilant and report any signs of smoke or fire to BC Wildfire Service. While there are no current evacuation alerts or orders, it is an opportune time for residents to ensure they are prepared in the event of a wildfire affecting the community.
Monitoring Dunn Lake Fire
The Clearwater Fire Department and District staff are monitoring the situation, especially weather conditions, as forecasted winds are expected to be 20-40 km/h this afternoon. This wind is out of the southwest and may push the Dunn Lake fire towards the District. A coordination call with TNRD and BC Wildfire took place today at 4:00 PM.
For further information or media inquiries, please contact the Communications Officer at communications@docbc.ca.
Jason Johnson
Interim Chief Administrative Officer
District of Clearwater
For additional details, please visit our website or contact the District of Clearwater administration office.
Contact Information:
Phone: 250-674-2257
Email: cao@docbc.ca
Address: PO Box 157, 209 Dutch Lake Road, Clearwater, BC V0E 1N0
End of Release