Wildfire near Rise golf course

by Wayne Moore - Castanet Aug 14, 2012 / 3:51 pm
 Vernon Fire Department are close to getting a small wildfire in the area of the Rise Golf Course under control.  The fire broke out earlier Tuesday afternoon near the first switchback at the golf course, just off of Tronson Rd. It's a couple of hectares in size. VFD Fire Captain, Dan Walker, says the fire is heading in a north-northwest direction. "Right now, it's just about under control. There are a few roads that might provide a fire break," says Walker. "Air tankers and helicopters are coming in right now. We called them (Ministry of Forests) in because structures could be threatened if we don't get this under control." Walker adds winds are light at the moment, aiding fire crews in their efforts. Meantime, Ministry of Forests Fire Information Officer, Kayla Pepper, says 18 firefighters, two forest officers, two helicopters and three tankers are en route to the fire from Kamloops and Castlegar. "Through the Okanagan we know that the situation can change quickly so we respond as quickly as possible, says Pepper.  (photos)