Looks like it could rain is not a phrase we hear much this year.
The unusual amount of rainfall has everyone saying, "When will it stop raining?"
The good side of the rain equation is apparent when you pass the BC Forest Service building in 100 Mile House where the fire hazard sign is parked at the low end. Other years, we have been holding our breath as the thunder and lightning storms battered the dry terrain.
In spite of the minor threat of fires, the Forest Grove Volunteer Fire Department (FGVFD) is always ready to roll and continues to train and update the volunteers.
On July 11, the FGVFD had a guest instructor, from the BC Forest Service, provide the annual update presentation to qualify the fire department volunteers to “interface” with forestry personnel in the event of a wildfire.
Shelly Harnden, a forest protection technician, outlined both existing material and any new information to ensure a smooth work experience, should the two fire services be required to fight fires together in the wilds of the Cariboo.
Her presentation followed the regulations and policies of Occupational Health & Safety, WCB and the Ministry of Forestry.
The critical daily periods (10 a.m. to 6 p.m.), being able to identify different types of smoke patterns, and reporting them accurately were discussed at length. Six different ranks of fire identity, ranging from a little white smoke right through to fireballs and swirls were explored.
Throughout the evening, it was evident it wasn't only important to call in an incident involving fire in the wild. It's also vital that factors associated with the fire are identified as accurately as possible.
Some of these factors include identifying existing landmarks to help pinpoint the location, the type of terrain in the fire area, the severity of the wind, the type and colour of smoke emitting from the area, the style and shape of visible flames, the type of vegetation in the immediate area, and how fast the fire seems to be moving.
While most people may not feel they could provide very clear and concise information, anything they do provide could help toward the success of early fire control.
Contacting emergency services through 9-1-1 promptly is the first step. Providing guidance by identifying special access roadways also shortens the arrival time to the fire area.
Calling for help is always better than trying to resolve the situation alone. The professionals are skilled in analyzing a situation quickly and getting the right crews going early.
Legion picnic
The appreciation picnic at the Forest Grove Legion is becoming an annual event.
Last year, a group of guests gathered in the backyard of the Legion for food, games and good company.
The food was superb and the variety of choice made people wish they had brought a bigger plate from home, although seconds were quite welcome.
This year, the event will be held in the same place on Aug. 21. If you are so inclined, make a potluck lunch, grab some lawn games and maybe a lawn chair or two, and head for the Legion in the Grove.
Auxiliary honoured
On Oct. 1, the Legion will honour its Ladies Auxiliary for its first 50 years of service.
It was scheduled to take place last year, but for on reason or another, it never happened. This year, the belated celebration won't be overlooked and the ladies, who make up this worthwhile organization, and their guests, will be pampered with a dinner.
If you are in the Legion Ladies Auxiliary, mark your calendar.
