Wildfire Update: Supporting Our Region, Staying Safe & Helping B.C. Businesses
As wildfires continue to affect communities throughout British Columbia, including areas of the Okanagan and Southern Interior, the Sicamous & District Chamber of Commerce recognizes the significant impact these fires are having on residents, visitors and businesses across our province.
While Sicamous continues to welcome visitors and support our local business community, we encourage everyone to remain informed, take precautions and support communities that are being affected by wildfire activity.
The Province of B.C. has declared a state of provincial emergency as wildfire activity continues across the province. Conditions can change quickly, so residents and visitors should rely on official sources for the most current information regarding fires, evacuation alerts and orders, road conditions and air quality.
Stay Informed
For the latest wildfire information, including active fires, fire danger ratings, restrictions and maps, visit:
For news and updates on the current wildfire situation, readers can also follow CBC British Columbia.
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED – HELP B.C. BUSINESSES IMPACTED BY WILDFIRES
One of the most important ways our business community can help is by supporting businesses affected by wildfire.
BCEDA’s DisasterSmartBC™ program is building a roster of volunteers who may be available to assist with business outreach and economic recovery efforts.
Volunteers may help:
- Connect with businesses impacted by wildfires
- Identify immediate business needs
- Share recovery resources and information
- Support outreach in affected communities
- Assist with economic recovery efforts
Registering does not commit you to a deployment. It simply allows the DisasterSmartBC™ team to contact you when assistance is needed and determine whether you are available.
If you have experience in economic development, business support, community development or related areas, your knowledge could make a meaningful difference to a business owner working to recover.
👉 Join the DisasterSmartBC™ volunteer roster:
Volunteer with DisasterSmartBC™
Please consider sharing this opportunity with colleagues, business professionals and community members who may be willing to lend a hand.
Protect Yourself From Wildfire Smoke
Smoke from wildfires can travel significant distances and may affect air quality even when a fire is not nearby. During periods of poor air quality, reducing your exposure to smoke is one of the best ways to protect your health.
Consider these precautions:
- Check the B.C. Air Quality Warnings before spending extended periods outdoors.
- Reduce or avoid strenuous outdoor activity when smoke levels are high.
- Keep windows and doors closed when appropriate.
- Use air conditioning on the recirculate setting where possible.
- Consider using a portable air cleaner with a HEPA filter.
- Stay hydrated and keep cool.
- If you must spend time outdoors in smoky conditions, a well-fitted respirator such as an N95 can help reduce exposure to fine particles.
Children, older adults, pregnant people and those with certain underlying health conditions can be more vulnerable to the effects of wildfire smoke. If you experience significant difficulty breathing, chest pain, severe coughing, dizziness or other concerning symptoms, seek medical attention.
For current conditions and health guidance, visit B.C. Air Quality Warnings and B.C.’s wildfire smoke information.
🚫 Off-Road Vehicle Restrictions Now in Effect
With wildfire conditions remaining extremely challenging, the Province has implemented temporary restrictions on recreational off-road vehicle use on Crown land in several B.C. fire centres, including the Kamloops and Southeast Fire Centres, as well as parts of other regions.
The restrictions are intended to reduce the risk of human-caused wildfires and help protect public and first-responder safety.
Off-road vehicles include ATVs, motorcycles and off-road side-by-side vehicles. Restrictions and exemptions can vary by area and land type, so always check the current provincial requirements before heading out.
👉 Current B.C. Fire Prohibitions & Restrictions
The Province has emphasized that off-road vehicle use during these conditions can create a potential ignition source, particularly in dry vegetation.
Supporting Our Neighbours
Wildfires affect much more than the landscape. They can disrupt businesses, tourism, employment, supply chains and entire communities.
As a business community, we can help by staying informed, following restrictions, supporting affected businesses when possible and volunteering our time and expertise where it is needed.
The Sicamous & District Chamber of Commerce encourages our members and community to continue supporting one another and the businesses and communities across B.C. that are facing the impacts of this challenging wildfire season.
Stay safe. Stay informed. And if you can help, consider volunteering.
Important: Wildfire conditions, evacuation orders, restrictions and air quality can change quickly. Always refer to official government sources for the most current information.
