A wildfire was spotted just south of Sparwood and the District is reminding you that flying drones disrupts firefighting efforts.
The fire is located at Sparwood Ridge and was reported to the BC Wildfire Service (BCWS) on Thursday morning.
It is still under 0.1 hectare in size and Sparwood officials said it is being actioned by the BCWS and Elk Valley Resources.
However, it is classified as ‘out of control’ and officials said efforts have been hampered by private drones in the area.
BCWS officials said operating any aircraft not associated with fire suppression efforts near a wildfire is illegal and could pose a serious safety risk to firefighting crews.
“The restricted area is within a radius of five nautical miles around the fire and to an altitude of 3,000 feet above ground level. The current maximum fine for an infraction is $25,000 and violators could spend up to 18 months in jail,” said BCWS officials.
“In Spring 2016, B.C.’s Wildfire Act was amended and anyone found interfering with wildfire control efforts (including flying drones or UAVs) can face penalties up to $100,000 and/or up to one year in jail.”
Meanwhile, the Mount Morro wildfire in Top of the World Park has grown to 1,300 hectares as of Thursday.
It is still considered ‘out of control,’ but no structures or infrastructure are being threatened by the flames.
“This fire is located at high elevation on Mount Morro, in extremely steep terrain that is inaccessible to crews. It is also displaying rank 4 fire behaviour that is not safe for crews to work on directly,” said BCWS officials.
“Wildfire Officers and an initial attack crew are working with BC Parks to identify and protect park values and develop strategies and tactics that align with the wildfire response plan.”
There are currently no evacuation alerts or orders in place in the East Kootenay.
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