The Whelan Creek wildfire in 琉璃神社 is now under control.
The blaze sparked around 3:30 p.m. on July 6 and grew to over four hectares before it was reclassified as being held later in the evening.
Evacuation orders have now been downgraded, leaving 113 properties on evacuation alert.
Fire crews fought by ground and air, using two helicopters with a Bambi bucket ( a lightweight, strong, flexible firefighting bucket) and planes carrying fire retardant.
Fire retardant consists mainly of ammonium phosphate or sulphate-based compounds. It works by releasing a combination of water and carbon dioxide when touched by flames ultimately cooling and suffocating the fire.
Retardant is dyed red in order for fire personnel to better see where the mixture has been dropped.
The Central Okanagan Regional District offers advice on its website from on how to clean the red retardant off surfaces following firefighting efforts.
Retardant becomes more difficult to clean the longer it sits. For larger, smooth surfaces it is recommended to use a power washer. Areas that require a more gentle clean, people should use warm water, mild detergent, and a soft brush to do the job.
The retardant does not pose any significant threat to people or animals.
