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By Corey Fischer
Burn-Off Planned For Foothills Area

Burn-Off Planned For Foothills Area

Apr 4, 2019 | 11:34 AM

Local and provincial fire crews are planning a prescribed burn in Vernon’s Foothills area later this month.

The burn aims to reduce the risk of wildfires by burning off fine fuels.

“Reducing the amount of wood debris and other combustible materials in grassland and urban wildfire interface areas helps slow the spread of wildfires,” says City Fire Chief Dave Lind.

The event will take place over the course of one day, sometime between April 9 and 18, depending on the conditions.

“The exact timing of this burn will depend on weather and site conditions,” says Lind. “It will proceed only if conditions are suitable and will allow for quick smoke dissipation and low to moderate fire intensity.”

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Firefighters will be going door to door in the Foothills area to deliver informational flyers and to answer questions.

An information session for residents of Foothills will be held April 8 from 7 – 9 p.m. at Grace Bible Church of Vernon, 5661 Silver Star Road.

Residents with questions are encouraged to attend the information session or call 250-542-5361 and press 1.

“Safety is the number one concern and fire crews and equipment will be on scene for the burn and to mop up,” adds Lind.

Vernon, BX-Swan Lake, and BC Wildfire crews will be involved in the burn.

by Corey Fischer

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