Fire Rescue workers received an unprecedented number of calls over the past week in the wake of campfire bans and wildfire hazards. From Tuesday, July 28 to Tuesday Aug. 4, Fire Rescue attended 26 calls - many from residents reporting that neighbours were burning in backyards, or campfires had been lit.
"A few were having fires on the Mamquam River," said fire chief Ray Saurette. "Some were not aware that a fire ban had been put in place. We had them extinguish their fires right away and educating them."
Firefighters also responded to four motor vehicle accidents, assisted with Search and Rescue and BC Ambulance calls and attended to fire alarms.
"I want to recognize the volunteers and the career [firefighters] for all their work on these calls," said Saurette. "We've been very, very busy - more than we've ever seen -and I want to extend my gratitude in their support in keeping the community safe."
Hit and run on 99
On July 31 Squamish RCMP received a report of an incident that occurred on Wednesday July 29. A cyclist was riding his bicycle near Clarke Drive and Highway 99 at 11:29 p.m., swerved to miss a pylon and was struck by a southbound vehicle, which failed to stop. The cyclist was thrown off his bicycle onto the hood of the vehicle and knocked unconscious. Another motorist stopped and BC Ambulance attended, but the cyclist did not go to hospital until the next day when his condition worsened and he was transferred to Lions Gate Hospital. The suspect vehicle is described as a dark colored Honda type vehicle. Police are asking the witness who stopped to assist and any other witnesses to contact them at 604-892-6100 or contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.
Taxi ditched
On Aug. 4 at 4:15 a.m., police were advised of a collision at Highway 99 and Depot Road. A Whistler Taxi Cab was located abandoned after it struck a median and went off the road striking, several newly planted trees. Police contacted the company and searched for the driver. The incident is still under investigation and charges of failing to remain at accident and driving without due care and attention are pending.
Cyclist loses control
On Aug. 3rd at 12:19 p.m., police, fire and ambulance attended a report of a motorcyclist being injured on Highway 99 near Britannia Beach. Rescuers located an injured cyclist who had lost control of his bicycle coming down the hill south of Britannia Beach. The 42-year-old cyclist was transported to hospital by B.C. Ambulance with serious road rash injuries.
Rollover on Squamish Valley Road
On Aug. 2 while en route to a possible drowning, police were notified of a vehicle rollover at 16.5 mile of the Squamish Valley Road. Two males in a black 2001 Acura lost control and rolled over. Alcohol was a factor and the driver was given a 24-hour driving prohibition and a violation ticket for driving without due care and attention. The passenger was transported to hospital by B.C. Ambulance for treatment and released.
Motorcycle stolen
On Aug. 2 at 12:04 p.m., a vehicle owner reports he parked his truck near 18 mile of the Squamish Valley Road overnight and in the morning discovered his motorcycle, which was chained in the back, had been stolen. Suspect(s) cut the chains securing his 2001 Blue Yamaha 250F dirt bike.
