BC Wildfire Service rescued a man trapped by the Pear Lake wildfire after he ignored an evacuation order, urging residents to leave immediately when told.
Wildfire Rescue Highlights Importance of Evacuation Orders
The BC Wildfire Service (BCWS) has shared a powerful reminder for British Columbians facing wildfire threats: if officials tell you to leave, don’t wait.
A recent rescue near the Pear Lake wildfire showed just how quickly conditions can turn dangerous. Although one resident first refused to evacuate, wildfire crews later had to return and rescue him after flames surrounded his property.
Resident Declined to Leave as Fire Closed In
During a public information meeting hosted by the Thompson-Nicola Regional District on Wednesday, Incident Commander Bryce Moreira described the incident.
He explained that crews visited a property after recommending an evacuation order as the wildfire moved closer.
Firefighters warned the resident that staying behind placed him in serious danger. However, the man rejected the advice and responded with angry and explicit comments.
Since crews needed to focus on battling the wildfire, they left the property and continued responding to the emergency.
Crews Returned When Escape Was No Longer Possible
Later, the situation changed dramatically.
Emergency crews received another call after the wildfire surrounded the man’s property. At that point, he could no longer leave safely on his own.
Fortunately, BC Wildfire Service firefighters reached the property in time and safely rescued the resident.
Everyone involved, including the firefighters, escaped without injury.
Rescue Pulled Firefighters Away From Critical Work
Moreira said the rescue ended well, but it also highlighted why evacuation orders matter.
Every evacuation order exists to protect residents, firefighters, and other first responders. When someone ignores those orders, emergency crews may have to risk their own safety to carry out a rescue.
In addition, every rescue takes firefighters away from other urgent tasks. Instead of focusing on wildfire suppression, protecting homes, or defending critical infrastructure, crews must divert resources to help people who chose to remain behind.
Officials Urge Residents to Leave Without Delay
Wildfire officials continue to stress that evacuation alerts and orders are based on changing fire behaviour and public safety—not convenience.
As fires grow, roads can close within minutes, smoke can reduce visibility, and escape routes may disappear. Therefore, leaving early gives residents the best chance to stay safe while allowing emergency crews to concentrate on fighting the fire.
Officials hope this rescue encourages more people to act quickly whenever evacuation orders are issued.
Wildfires Continue Across British Columbia
The wildfire season remains active across the province.
As of Thursday, the BC Wildfire Service reported 129 active wildfires burning throughout British Columbia. Fire crews continue working across multiple regions to contain blazes, protect communities, and reduce further damage.
Authorities encourage residents to monitor local wildfire updates closely and follow evacuation instructions immediately if they are issued.
