Photo: Google Maps
UPDATE: 9:40 a.m
As fire risk rises under a heat advisory in the North Okanagan, there was a close call Sunday at Kalamalka Lake Provincial Park in Coldstream.
“In the early hours of the morning on Sunday, July 24, the careless and thoughtless actions of a few could have had disastrous consequences for our community and area,” Coldstream District said in a press release on Monday morning .
“Had it not been for the quick action of the Coldstream Fire Department, we could have been dealing with a massive interface bushfire today.”
District CAO Trevor Seibel says a fire started inside the park that is believed to have originated on a neighboring property.
The incident is under investigation and no further details have been released.
“Ignorance is not an excuse for dealing with fire risk and prohibitions in our community. Everyone is expected to know the rules and follow them to protect our community,” the district said.
Photo: Jon Manchester
ORIGINAL: 9:15 a.m
North Okanagan residents are being reminded to take precautions for their own safety and the increased fire risk as a heat advisory has been a problem for the region.
The City of Vernon is encouraging the public to prepare for an extended period of heat this week.
Environment Canada has issued a heat advisory for the Okanagan. During the next few days, maximums between 35 and 37 ºC are expected with nighttime lows around 18 ºC.
Meanwhile, the Borough of Coldstream is reminding residents of the increased fire risk.
The fire danger rating is currently high in the North Okanagan and is expected to intensify with warmer temperatures.
Open burning, larger category 2 and 3 fires, equipment activities, fireworks and burn barrels are currently prohibited.
Failure to comply with provincial or local fire bans could result in fines of up to $10,000.
Interior Health recommends watching yourself and others for signs of heat-related illness and taking specific steps to stay cool and hydrated, such as:
- Drink water regularly, before you start to feel thirsty.
- Look for shade or cool places indoors, avoid direct midday sun.
- Wear loose protective clothing and a hat, sunscreen and UV protection glasses.
- Plan your outdoor activity before 11 a.m. or after 4 p.m., to avoid the hottest sun, and do it slowly with plenty of breaks.
- Never leave people or pets alone in a parked car. Temperatures can rise quickly and become much hotter than the outside temperature.
- Cover the windows during the day and open them in the evening if you can get a breeze in your house.
- Use the air conditioner (if available) to take the edge off the fire, but be careful not to overcool your space.
- Check in regularly with family, friends and neighbors to see how they are doing; especially older adults, infants and children, those who are physically active or work outdoors, and those with underlying health conditions.
As temperatures rise, the wildfire threat can change quickly. If you see a wildfire, call the BC Wildfire Service toll-free at 1 800 663-5555 or *5555 on a cell phone. If you see smoke or fire in Vernon, call 911 immediately.