As blaze rages, some opt to stay

Dozens in Fort Nelson area reject evacuation orders to help as fires threaten the region

Duane Loe lives just three kilometres south of Fort Nelson, B.C., where most of the 4,700 people have fled from a fast-approaching wildfire. But Loe isn't leaving He has decided to stay put with a group of about a dozen other residents who have firefighting experience and plan to protect their homes and property.

The forecasts have called for westerly winds to push the Parker Lake blaze in their direction.

"We are safe," Loe said on Monday as the government urged all remaining residents to leave. "We understand that there (are) evacuation orders, but they can't force you out. So, we are here to protect our property, our homes, the livestock and the land. That's why we're staying" The response comes after B.C.