A five-hectare grass fire near Wolfe Creek just off Highway 3 west of Hedley Sunday created some uncomfortable moments for one of the area’s third largest industrial employers.
It was a work crew at Princeton Wood Preservers that reported the fire to BC forestry mid Sunday afternoon, said Elizabeth Marion, company president.
“I’d say the fire was a good three kilometres away from us and it was on the other side of the highway…but I also know how fast these things can spread. It was a very big concern for us.”
According to Wildfire BC 18 firefighters were dispatched to the blaze, supported by heavy equipment and a helicopter. Highway 3 was closed for several hours and motorists were detoured to Old Hedley Road.
Fire Information Officer Max Birkner said Monday the fire was in mop up status, and 75 per cent contained.
The cause of the fire is still under investigation, he said.
Marion had only praise for Wildfire BC firefighters, Princeton firefighters, and her own employees who stayed late into the evening to ensure PWP was protected.
“We have a little fire truck here and water but it’s not like it’s a full fleet,” said Marion.
“A huge thank you to my crew…They worked until six and then decided they wanted to stay to make sure we weren’t threatened. It really impressed me.”