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Helicopter pilots fighting Okanagan wildfires ask people to stay away from Oliver Airport

“Our pilots are working hard, the last thing they need is to have concerns when coming into land”

Transwest Helicopters is reminding residents and visitors taking pictures to stay away from the Oliver Airport which is being used by aircrafts fighting the wildfires.

Transwest has been stationed at the local airport fighting local wildfires including the one that broke out in Oliver July 4. Thanks to the quick work of ground and air crews dousing the blaze early, they saved homes from burning and the fire is now held.

“A reminder to local residents — Oliver Airport is currently operational and not open to the general public. We have safety concerns as folk have been coming in too close to our facility taking photos and videos,” Transwest posted on Facebook on Tuesday, July 6.

“We appreciate your support but please stay outside of the airport perimeter for your own safety. Our pilots are working hard and the last thing they need is to have concerns when coming into land. Your cooperation is appreciated.”

Helicopters use the airport as their base and fill up their water buckets in nearby lakes.

Helicopters were also used in the Osoyoos fire on Monday. That one is also being held and is currently at 1.9 hectares.

READ MORE: Oliver wildfire is under control and held at 45 ha

READ MORE: Osoyoos fire stays fire after quick action from the air

To report a typo, email: editor@pentictonwesternnews.com.

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Monique Tamminga

About the Author: Monique Tamminga

Monique brings 20 years of award-winning journalism experience to the role of editor at the Penticton Western News. Of those years, 17 were spent working as a senior reporter and acting editor with the Langley Advance Times.
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