Crews are responding to a wildfire that broke out Wednesday on Cougar Mountain, north of the B.C. resort community of Whistler. The blaze has spread to an estimated 6.5 hectares, according to the B.C. Wildfire Service website, which lists the suspected cause as lightning. The site classifies the wildfire as burning out of control, meaning that it’s either spreading or “anticipated to spread beyond the current perimeter.” Jennifer Lohmeyer, information officer with the Coastal Fire Centre, said the flames are located approximately 1.5 kilometres from Highway 99, but that traffic has not been impacted. “The wildfire does not currently pose a threat to any structures, or to public safety,” Lohmeyer said. Dozens of personnel are responding to the wildfire—located approximately 11 kilometres northeast of Alta Lake—with one unit crew, two attack crews and three helicopters dispatched to the scene. No evacuation orders or alerts have been issued. Lohmeyer said anyone living nearby who is concerned can contact the Squamish-Lillooet Regional District and sign up for emergency notifications. She also said thanked the witnesses who reported the wildfire, and encouraged anyone else who sees one to contact the B.C. Wildfire Service by calling 1-800-663-5555, or dialing *5555 on a cellphone. “The public is a huge help when it comes to early detection,” Lohmeyer said. Wildfires can also be reported online.
