"Nothing about the fire situation has improved so far," said Commissioner James Smith this morning, "except for our organizational ability to deal with emergencies. Most of the burning areas are considered very serious and in many instances have all the makings of the same type of disaster that we had on our doorstep here last Friday."

More than 500,000 acres of forest are in flames as 57 fires burn out of control throughout the Yukon, which is considered the hardest hit area in Canada. All danger areas are still receiving top priority effort. A complete fire break has been constructed around the town of Ross River, and residents have moved back into their Pelly Crossing homes. The Poster-Creek Crestview situation has eased off, and the relinquishment of some of the restrictions has meant the water bomber servicing the burnt-out district can be diverted to the Pelly River area where one huge blaze has enveloped almost 100,000 acres. Latest reports indicate that the sawmill located near Anvil Mines is still intact.

Except for the Faro Townsite loss, which has been estimated at almost $1 million, there is no indication of the total financial devastation caused by the fires. As far as is known only one commercial timber berth, on the Macmillan, has been hit so far although areas of the Liard which contain merchantable trees are threatened. Officials are unaware of any human injuries.

Emergency measures organization members met this morning with district director Dan Billing to finalize plans, search for loopholes and if possible iron out any areas of conflict which might become obvious in a disaster. No thoughts will be given to bringing in outside help yet but should Whitehorse be threatened then perhaps EMO would look for military help. While Mr. Billing is in the territory he will conduct a total review of the Civil Emergencies ordinance which covers all types of disasters from plane crashes to floods.

In some parts of the territory bush men, trappers and outfitters have been forced to leave the woods and move into communities they would otherwise not have visited until fall. In other districts, however, many men will be too busy firefighting to take precious time to vote.