Prince George, B.C.- Minister of Forests and Range, Pat Bell, says if the wind stays calm, fire fighters will  be able to get the upper hand on fires that are raging in West Kelowna area “The latest information I have is that the Rose Valley fire is now 100 hectares. The terrain is very challenging so we can’t put ground crews on that fire so we are working hard from the air, putting fire retardant down.”

Fire started in the Glenrosa area of West Kelowna yesterday forcing the evacuation of  6500 homes.  This morning there is the added challenge of  a wildfire in the Rose Valley area. The cause of the fires is under investigation.

Firefighters were able to save  the Gorman Bros Mill in the Glenrosa region,  loss of that mill could have meant the loss of about 300 of jobs it is the  primary employer in that region.

Bell says the fire retardant dropped on the Glenrosa region last night seems to be holding. So far, the best break has been the dying down of the wind, calmer winds overnight kept the fire from spreading. “The fire appears to be running towards the lake, so that gives us a small degree of comfort” says Minister Bell.

The Minister also says the incident commanders have full authority to put whatever resources they feel are necessary on the fires.

Bell says the information he has indicates three homes and one trailer were destroyed by flames in the Glenrosa area last night and that the size of that fire is now 350 hectares.

There have been issues with “looky- loos” says West Kelowna Mayor Doug Findlater, he calls upon boaters to stay clear of the region as they are hampering efforts of choppers to pick up fresh water. “We need people to stay clear of the area so the firefighters can do their jobs.”

People who have been forced from their homes have been advised to report to the Royal LePage Place to  register, even if they have some other place to stay.  That way, if they are separated from family or friends, there is  a way for  authorities, friends and family to know those  who live in the danger areas are o.k.