Planned Burn in 2023 Wildfire Nearly Killed Firefighters, Says B.C. Safety Report

A new WorkSafeBC report has revealed that a planned burn conducted during the intense 2023 wildfire season in British Columbia nearly led to tragedy, as a group of firefighters became trapped by the blaze with no safe escape. The incident occurred in the Shuswap region on August 17, as part of efforts to contain wildfires threatening the area.

According to inspection documents, a team of Brazilian firefighters was forced to retreat to a “safe zone” under power lines, where they burned off surrounding fuel and sheltered overnight due to intense fire behaviour, thick smoke, and falling trees. They were only rescued the next day after another crew cut through the area to reach them.

Other crews also encountered serious hazards, including navigating around burning debris and nearly losing control of fire trucks. WorkSafeBC concluded that the BC Wildfire Service did not provide adequate planning, training, or supervision for the operation—an oversight that could have resulted in multiple fatalities.

The operation was intended to reduce fuel loads along a 10-kilometre stretch of power lines as the Lower East Adams Lake and Bush Creek wildfires advanced. But locals say the burn may have worsened the fire’s spread. Dozens of homes were ultimately destroyed, and the Skwlax te Secwepemculecw First Nation lost over 80 structures.

Long-time Lee Creek resident Jim Cooperman, who filed a formal complaint with the Forest Practices Board, believes the ignition — conducted just ahead of a major windstorm — played a significant role in the destruction. He described the planned fire as “gross negligence” and said the report supports the community’s call for accountability.

WorkSafeBC also criticized the lack of an ignition specialist on-site and the absence of a coordinated ground briefing. Firefighters received only limited verbal instructions prior to the operation. The Forests Ministry acknowledged the findings and stated that the wildfire service has since updated its protocols and is now compliant with safety requirements.

While authorities maintain that the burn helped protect several properties, the safety agency has confirmed it is now considering enforcement action due to the severity of the near-miss.

The community remains devastated, with many residents still recovering emotionally and financially. Cooperman’s home was reduced to ashes, and he says the experience has left the region traumatized. “This report strengthens our demand for answers,” he said.