Evacuation order issued for residents near Petitot River Fire

An evacuation order has been issued for residents living near the Petitot River Fire, which is burning 115 km northeast of Fort Nelson.

A State of Local Emergency has also been declared for the area due to the threat to people and property.

Residents of the Penn West/Wildboy Plant and area must leave immediately.

Everyone is advised to:

• Close all windows and doors
• Shut off all gas and electrical appliances, other than refrigerators and freezers
• Close gates (latch) but do not lock
• Gather your family/co-workers and ensure everyone is accounted for: take a neighbour or someone who needs help
• Take critical items (medicine, purse, wallet, and keys) only if they are immediately available. Take pets in pet kennels or on leash.
• Not use more vehicles then you have to
• Not use the telephone unless you need emergency service.

The Petitot River Fire is currently 3,332 hectares in size and is zero per cent contained.

It was first discovered on June 24 and is believed to have been caused by lightning.