Pemberton Fire Rescue, Pemberton Meadows Fire and the BC Wildfire Service (BCWS) rushed to a large grass and brush fire on Wednesday, May 1. The fire happened in the 8900 block of Pemberton Meadows Road and spread quickly over 4.6 hectares of land.
Thankfully, the fire was quickly extinguished by the fire departments. BCWS arrived to the scene later and helped with hot spots in the area. The fire was reportedly started by motorcycle exhaust that was still hot.
Fire Chief, Cameron Adams said work is continuing today to make sure the area is safe. “Pemberton fire will be on scene today to search for additional hot spots before it is officially deemed extinguished,” he said. “This event serves as an important reminder that even early in the season, conditions are very dry. Pemberton Fire Rescue urges the public to take extra care and necessary precautions when engaging in recreational activities or work within our community’s wildland or grassy areas.”
The fire spread onto Pemberton Meadows resident Michelle Bek’s farm. She told Pique she is worried about what summer will bring.
“It started accidentally by a dirt bike on our neighbour’s property out back close to the mountain. It quickly spread to our farm when a slight wind picked up,” she said.” My son went out with our tractor and fire pump and then the crews all came out to fight it. It spread so fast!”
She explained how quickly a fire like this can get out of control.
“The dirt bike was broken down out back of our neighbour’s and the rider walked in to get tools,” she said. “It was hot from running and I guess it fell over and started the grass on fire. It moved scary fast! It burned around and under some of our equipment we have stored out there. The firefighters managed to keep it from burning up. So thankful!”
Beks also stressed conditions are extremely dry for this time of year.
“With little to no rain and very little snow melt I hate to see what the summer brings,” she said. “It’s only the beginning of May.”
