Wildfire in Maple Ridge estimated at 1.5 hectares Saturday morning

Update 10:15 p.m.: The fire has now been downgraded to “being held”.

Crews will continue monitoring the area overnight and throughout the week to ensure stable conditions.

BC Wildfire Service is also set to provide an assessment of the site within the week.

Original story below:

MAPLE RIDGE — Crews continue to tackle a wildfire that sparked early Friday evening at the top of the Rock Ridge area in Maple Ridge.

Crews responded to reports of a brush fire along Malcolm Knapp forest at around 6:30 p.m. last night.

Approximately 25 personnel from Maple Ridge Firefighters, along with BC Wildfire Service and UBC Forestry, were on scene overnight and into the early morning in “extremely steep and challenging terrain”.

“Those sensitive to smoke are encouraged to keep windows and doors closed and limit outdoor exposure where possible,” wrote the City of Maple Ridge. “Please continue to avoid the area and stay clear of emergency operations personnel and equipment.”

Residents are also asked not to use drones near the incident to avoid interfering with firefighting aircraft.

There is currently no risk to the public or properties in the area.

The fire is suspected to be human-caused and remains under investigation.

BC Wildfire Service lists the fire at 1.5 hectares as of 7 a.m. Saturday, and Maple Ridge firefighters say the situation has been contained at this time.

(Image Credit: Maple Ridge Firefighters, IAFF 4449)