Prince George, B.C. – The Central Okanagan Regional District says the Evacuation Order for the wildfire area burning east of Kelowna has been rescinded for 263 properties.

It means about 600 residents living near the Philpott Road wildfire can return to their homes as of 11 am today, although they are still on alert to be evacuated should the need arise.  The interactive map for the revised evacuation order and alert areas can be found at www.cordemergency.ca

Highway 33 has been re-opened to single-lane, alternating, piloted traffic but authorities say the return home will be a slow process that will be managed by the RCMP, Ministry of Transportation and by Canadian Forces personnel.  Flaggers are in place and motorists are advised to watch for them and to obey speed limits.

As well household pets such as cats and dogs are allowed to return with their owners but any other animals are not permitted back at this time due to the fact the fire behaviour could change and residents may be ordered out of their homes once again.

Residents on the Falcon Ridge water system are restricted to household use only to preserve the water supply to fight the fire.

Active fire suppression work continues on the Philpott Road fire and people are cautioned to stay out of the way of emergency crews and vehicles.

Over 1,100 residents have been forced out of their homes since the fire began on Thursday.