Creston RCMP are asking for public help for information about major vandalism to radio equipment on Thompson Mountain.
BC Wildfire Service said on Thursday that a building on the mountain that defines the eastern portion of the Creston Valley was broken into between July 29 and August 2.
After forcing entry, vandals damaged beyond repair equipment used to provide communications among BC Wildlife Service personnel, including crews fighting forest fires. The cost of replacing the radio equipment and installing it in a more secure area could run as high as $100,000.
“At this time of the year, when wildfire behaviour can be both aggressive and unpredictable, it's crucial for BC Wildfire Service personnel to be able to communicate with each other quickly and effectively,” according to a news release. “Radio repeaters and related equipment are vital for ensuring the safety of firefighting crews and for protecting the public and infrastructure from harm.
“Radio repeaters used by the BC Wildfire Service are located throughout the province. Anyone who comes across this equipment in the backcountry should leave it alone.”
Information about the vandalism, which occurred near the Thompson Rim Trail, is asked to contact Creston RCMP at 250-429-9313 or call Crime Stoppers at 1 800 222-TIPS.
To report a wildfire, unattended campfire or open burning violation, call 1 800 663-5555 toll-free or *5555 on a cellphone.
For the latest information on current wildfire activity, burning restrictions, road closures and air quality advisories, visit http://www.bcwildfire.ca