Officials in the village of Clinton, B.C., said more than $15,000 in fines have been issued to people defying a wildfire-related evacuation order over the past two weeks. Residents were forced to flee on July 24, due to the Pear Lake wildfire, which is classified as out of control and which has grown to nearly 1,500 square kilometres in size. While local officials said they sympathize with the stress and uncertainty of a weeks-long evacuation, residents were urged to abide by the order—and warned that “further fines are expected to be issued.” In an online statement Monday, officials also said there have been no reports of looting. “We want to reassure you that the village, including local businesses and homes, continues to be monitored by local RCMP and security personnel,” the statement said. “We understand that residents want to check on their homes and properties. However, the evacuation order is in place to protect residents, firefighters, emergency personnel and everyone working in the community.” A complete assessment of property damage within the village has not yet been completed but power has been restored, which the update from the village said means some people are able to view their properties through their surveillance cameras. The work underway to assess damage and restore access will involve “authorized personnel” accessing private property—which may account for some “activity” people see around their homes or businesses, the village said. A violation ticket for entering an area under evacuation order comes with a fine of $1,150.
