Busy Day for OKIB Fire Department

Saturday was a demanding day for members of the Okanagan Indian Band (OKIB) Fire Department, who responded to both a wildfire and a highway crash within hours.

September 27 2025 - A wildfire near Skookum Mine Road on Westside Road forced a road closure between Skookum Mine and Mary’s Emerald Bay for much of the morning.

According to OKIB, 14 firefighters from their department worked alongside nine BC Wildfire Service (BCWS) personnel, supported by two helicopters.

By late morning, crews had gained the upper hand.

Just after 12:30 p.m., while crews were still engaged at the wildfire, a call came in about a single-vehicle crash at Highway 97 and Westside Road.

Responders found a vehicle off the highway with airbags deployed and injured occupants. RCMP and multiple ambulances attended the scene.

Highway 97 traffic was halted in both directions until alternating single-lane traffic could be established. BC Ambulance transported at least two people to local hospitals with what are believed to be significant injuries.

By afternoon, Westside Road had reopened and BCWS reported the wildfire as

“Being Held.” Highway 97 traffic also returned to normal.

Wildfire Summary (BCWS – Sept. 27, 2025, 11:39 a.m.)

• Fire number: K42202

• Stage of control: Being Held

• Size: 13.25 hectares

• Cause: Suspected human-caused

• Resources: 9 BCWS personnel, 14 OKIB firefighters, 2 helicopters

• Location: Westside Road, near Skookum Mine Road

A video of the wildfire response is available on the OKIB Fire Department’s Facebook page: Watch here.