The Regional District of Bulkley-Nechako (RDBN) has issued an evacuation alert for areas affected by the Sabina Lake Wildfire. 

The evacuation alert, issued on Aug. 30 upon recommendation from BC Wildfire Service, concerns all lands, properties, and dwellings located south of the Cheslatta River, between Skins Lake and Cheslatta Lake, north of Ootsa Lake, and west of the Marilla Main FSR.

The alert has been issued due to the ongoing wildfire and the associated risk to life and health, RDBN said in a statement.Residents in the affected areas are advised to prepare for possible evacuation. While every effort will be made to provide advance notice, rapid changes in conditions may limit the warning time.

The Sabina Lake wildfire, renamed recently by BC Wildfire Service at the request of Cheslatta Carrier Nation, was first discovered on July 19 west of Ghitezli Lake. The 'out of control 'blaze has scorched over 43,130 hectares.

Based on an Aug. 30 update provided by BCWS, yesterday evening (Aug. 29), fire activity intensified, with smoke becoming visible from the north side of Ootsa Lake. To help slow the fire's spread, air tankers dropped retardant along the northeast flank.

BCWS anticipates increased smoke and fire activity, especially on warmer days with wind, for the next few days.

An evacuation alert has been issued to prepare residents to evacuate premises or property should it be found necessary. Residents will be given as much advance notice as possible prior to evacuation, however, they may receive limited notice due to changing conditions. 

Community members are being asked to be prepared for an evacuation order by locating all family members, co-workers and planning to meet outside the evacuation area, should an evacuation be called while separated.

This includes :

• gathering essential items such as medications, eyeglasses, valuable papers (i.e., insurance), immediate care needs for dependents and, if you choose, keepsakes (photographs, etc.), and have these items readily available for quick departure.
• Preparing to move any persons with mobility challenges and/or children.
• Move pets and livestock to a safe area. If you require assistance, please call the Regional District of Bulkley-Nechako.
• Arrange to transport your household members or co-workers in the event of an evacuation order. If you are asked to evacuate and need transportation assistance from the area, please call the Regional District of Bulkley-Nechako.
• Arrange accommodation for your family if possible.
• In the event of an Evacuation Order, a Reception Centre will be opened if required, and evacuation routes specified.

Residents can monitor the local radio station and the Regional District of Bulkley-Nechako website, www.rdbn.bc.ca for information on this evacuation alert and/or any changes to the situation.