PEACHLAND (NEWS1130) – The wildfire in Peachland still covers two square kilometres but fire crews are working hard to get it fully under control.

Earlier today, a portion of the evacuation order was downgraded to an alert, meaning another 158 people are allowed to go home, while 258 still can’t. Last night, around 1,100 people were allowed to return home.

“There is still an area that is on order, so people are not allowed to go home. Forestry crews are working to secure and confine the fire 100 per cent. Right now it’s 75 per cent contained,” explains Kirsten Jones with the Central Okanagan Regional District.

She hopes to have more good news for those who remain out of their homes soon.

“We had a little rain last night and cool temperatures, which was excellent. We understand residents are getting frustrated and forestry crews and structural firefighters are working hard to get everyone home.”

Peachland resident Phil Kachanoski was for forced from his home but was allowed to return this morning.

“Fire has always been a issue. So you just got to get that in your mindset that other places have tornadoes or earthquakes and we have fire here. That’s life.”

Bruce Smith, who is also with the Central Okanagan Regional District, tells the Canadian Press they have been going through properties with an extensive checklist.

“BC Hydro crews have to go through and check lines to make sure there’s electricity to service people when they do get back. Fortis is out with their crews checking gas lines to make sure things are safe there. Some hazard assessments have to be done on various properties,” he explains.

Fire crews say they hope to get the wildfire fully contained soon and, with more hot dry weather in the forecast, to be able to hold the lines if the winds whip up again.