Smoke may be visible from the Coq this week: B.C. Wildfire Service
MERRITT — B.C. Wildfire Service says it will conduct training exercises this week near Merritt in which smoke may be visible to residents and nearby motorists on Highway 5, the Coquihalla Highway.
According to a statement, BCWS says crews will be situated west of Merritt in the Coutlee Plateau on Wednesday, April 9, using small piles to mimic wildfire response. It says smoke may be visible to nearby residents and motorists on Highways 5 and 8.
“This is an important part of our annual Provincial Crew Leader Training Camp to prepare our staff for the season ahead,” BCWS said. “The exercise provides our staff with valuable experience responding to live fire in a training environment before engaging in active wildfire response. Experienced staff and instructors are involved extensively throughout the exercise.”
BCWS says 58 fire fighters with suppression tools and additional equipment will be on site to ensure a safe and effective exercise.
