B.C. Wildfire Service attack crews joined the Colwood Fire Department to battle a brush fire at Fort Rodd Hill National Historic Site late Wednesday afternoon.
The attack crew arrived by helicopter as Colwood Fire fought to contain the blaze along a steep bluff along the water’s edge east of Esquimalt Lagoon.
Colwood Fire Chief Bryan Erwin said the fire was growing rapidly when they arrived.
“The fire moved fast and was assisted by a big offshore breeze,” said Erwin, noting the blaze had already scorched an area about 30 by 45 metres when firefighters arrived.
He said once the water supply was established, firefighters were able to contain the blaze, which burned an area of about half a hectare.
No injuries were reported and there were no damages to any structures at Fort Rodd Hill.
Witnesses reported a column of smoke and floating ash from the fire.
The cause of the fire was not immediately determined, but the B.C. Wildfire Service listed it as human caused on Thursday.
Erwin said quick calls to 911 allowed firefighters to respond rapidly.
He urged the public to call in smoke and fires, as conditions remain extremely dry.
“We have extreme fire conditions on the south Island right now,” said Erwin. “We want people to get out there and enjoy nature, but remind them to be extremely cautious and aware.”
A total of 19 firefighters worked to put out the fire, including four members of the B.C. Wildfire Service and members of View Royal Fire Department.
