Philpott Road Fire calm overnight: News Release No. 9

Overnight, fire crews worked to snuff out fires and hotspots, monitored the blaze, and protected properties from the Philpott Road wildfire. There haven’t been any reports of damage and there were no significant changes to the fire overnight thanks to favourable weather conditions.

The fire is estimated to be 465 hectares in size and is considered out of control. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

At this time, crews are assessing the Evacuation Order area and it will be adjusted only when it is safe to do so. An estimated 1,100 people are currently out of their homes. Visit www.cordemergency.ca for an interactive map of the evacuation order area and to sign up for emergency e-updates.

Residents are reminded to respect roadblocks and closures, and exercise caution when driving, especially in areas where people are working or stationed close to the road. Entering areas under evacuation order is not permitted and puts the public and crews at risk.

Highway 33 is still closed as a result of this wildfire. Visit drivebc.ca for updates on road closures. Those who decide to use the detour route via McCulloch Road should use extreme caution and drive no more than 35 kilometres an hour as this is not a regularly maintained route and is only recommended for non-commercial, passenger vehicles.

The Emergency Support Services reception centre at Willow Park Church (439 Highway 33 West, Kelowna) is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. today and 12:30 to 5 p.m. Sunday. Anyone under evacuation order should check in with Emergency Support Services.

Residents affected by the Philpott Road wildfire are eligible for up to $600 financial assistance per household by registering with Red Cross. Register at redcross.ca or by calling 1-800-863-6582.

For the latest information, including an interactive map of the emergency, visit www.cordemergency.ca. Updates are also available via social media; follow us at facebook.com/CORDemergency or twitter.com/CO_Emerg.