9:30 p.m. update: The Gustafsen fire remains at 5,700 hectares and 45 per cent containment according to Fire Information Officer Lynn Daina.
“We’ve had a couple of crews demobilize today. It’s been a big day of changeover and we’ve got some new resources that have come in. So it’s been a big day of transition for everyone involved on this particular fire.”
New crews came from Prince Edward Island, Newfoundland and contract BC crews, according to Daina, who wasn’t sure what was in store next for existing crews.
“They’re definitely getting a break but I would imagine they will be moving on to another fire but I’m not sure where they’ll be sent to.”
With the current containment levels and a good mood among new arrivals, Daina was optimistic.
“We’ve got potential precipitation coming in tomorrow, looking forward to some rain, and everyone’s fresh and containment being at 45 per cent and good progress being made on a daily basis, it’s very encouraging that we’ll be able to get this thing out in the next couple of weeks with any luck. Weather is the biggest thing.”
Original story: The Gustafsen fire is still at 45 per cent contained and crews will once again be focussing on extinguishing hot spots according to Fire Information Officer Terry Murphy.
“Just basically mopping up and reinforcing guards, moving the guards in towards the fire.”
Murphy says the mood has become pretty good.
“It’s pretty positive in the Fire Centre here… I know after that wind event we had last week thing were pretty stressful in the fire centre but they’re a lot more relaxed now.”