Wildfire evacuees from Doig River First Nation return home

Members of the Doig River First Nation have been given the go-ahead to return home, a week after they were ordered to evacuate due to the Parker Lake wildfire.

A notice from the nation says the fire risk has diminished due to weather and the work of firefighters. Residents were able to return as of 11:30 a.m. Monday.

The DoigRiver First Nation reserve is located around 40 kilometresnortheast of Fort St. John, B.C., in the province's northeast. Fort St. John isthe community currently hosting thousands of wildfire evacueesfrom Fort Nelson.

Doig River First Nation Chief Trevor Makagahaysaid on CBC's Radio WestTuesday that many community members had returned home.

"Everybody's got a smile on their face, they're happy that our community didn't burn down. They're just grateful to be home again."

Makagahay said it was difficult evacuating to Fort St. John last week, which was already full with evacuees from Fort Nelson and the Fort Nelson First Nation.He said it was particularly difficult for the elders in the community.

"I think they were really anxious while the fires were going on," saidMakagahay.

Residents are urged to stay prepared if another evacuation order is issued, including stocking up on fuel and other essentials like medications, food, and pet supplies.