Aug. 23, 2022
Coastal GasLink is closely monitoring the Morice River wildfire and the evacuation alert by the Regional District of Bulkley-Nechako. Our priority is always the safety of our workers, their families, local and Indigenous communities and first responders. We have advised members of the public within the vicinity of our work sites with information about the fire and are prepared to assist them should evacuation become necessary. In this instance, our contractor also provided four pieces of heavy equipment to the BC Wildfire Service to assist in the fire response. The BC Wildfire Service crews are currently being housed at Coastal GasLink’s 9A Lodge.
At this time, work is safely continuing as the wildfire is not in our project footprint. We continuously monitor fire hazards and forest fire risks and have well-established plans in place to manage these risks and protect our people, and if necessary, assist in firefighting efforts. Our prime contractor in Section 7 has a full-time Fire Boss, that coordinates S-100 training for field crews and the placement of fire suppression trailers and equipment on the project footprint. The Fire Boss also keeps the crews up to date on fire danger ratings daily.
Our management plans include specialized fire response trailers with specific fire suppression equipment and resources across the right of way. As mentioned, equipment is available to help firefighters, including dozers, excavators, water trucks, hoses, pumps, gas generators, and fire suppression trailers equipped with water tanks, pumps, and hoses. Our plans also include evacuation procedures for Coastal GasLink personnel with no reliance on local resources meant for residents. Where possible we have and will continue to provide accommodations to firefighting crews.
For additional information about the wildfire, please contact the BC Wildfire Service: Wildfire Service - Province of British Columbia (gov.bc.ca).
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