UPDATE: Dump fire contained, effort winds down | iNFOnews | Thompson-Okanagan's News Source
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Vernon News

UPDATE: Dump fire contained, effort winds down

UPDATE: 3:09 p.m. Aug. 21, 2013

VERNON - Fire and Rescue Services is winding down its involvement in the landfill fire that started Monday.

While the fire continues to burn, the Regional District is working to bring in a wildfire contractor who will continue to soak down the landfill property and maintain a fire watch for the next few days. As well, the contractor will be looking for possible spot fires from brands created in the landfill.

Vernon Fire and Rescue Services and the City of Vernon would like to thank the Lavington and Coldstream fire halls of the District of Coldstream Fire Department, BX Swan lake Fire Department and Lumby Fire Department for their support with apparatus and personnel during the fire," Vernon Deputy Fire Chief Jack Blair said. "Without their assistance, the situation could have been much worse."

Blair also thanked B.C. Ambulance, the RCMP and Chaplain Dave McBain.

The fire began when a grinding machine caught fire and flames spread to the landfill and surrounding grasses and hillside. There were approximately 50 firefighters working on the fire at its peak. 

Air tanker and helicopter support during the intial attack was provided by B.C. Wildfire Management Branch.

9:50 a.m. Aug. 21, 2013

VERNON - The fire at the Greater Vernon Recycling and Disposal Facility is now contained. 

Vernon Fire and Rescue has been fighting the fire since Monday afternoon. They continue to monitor the situation.

The dump is open again today, though the commercial tipping area and the waste wood marshalling area have been relocated. Customers are asked to follow signs on the site to find the new locations.

The Regional District of North Okanagan is advising people with respiratory concerns may choose to delay a visit to the landfill or use an alternative facility until after the smoke clears.

For more information contact the Regional District office at 250-550-3700.

News from © iNFOnews, 2013
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