By Pete McIntyre

‘Careless act’ appears to have sparked fire near homes

Aug 3, 2019 | 12:17 PM

It appears someone setting off fireworks may have sparked a grass fire that led to a major call-out for both the Vernon and Coldstream fire departments overnight.

Vernon Fire Chief David Lind said at around 2:20 a.m Saturday loud bangs were reported in the area of Kalamalka Lakeview Drive.

RCMP, Vernon Fire Rescue and the Coldstream Fire Department responded to find grass fires burning in the area below Kalamalka Lakeview Drive Lookout, an area adjacent to several residential properties.

“Moderate fire conditions and calm winds contributed to the successful extinguishment of the fires without a loss of property or the need for evacuation,” said Lind

The Vernon and Coldstream departments worked together to contain the fire, which was fully extinguished at 4:48 this morning.

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“This fire occurred within the City of Vernon, however, the initial 911 calls did not provide the exact location so both Vernon and Coldstream were dispatched at the same time. RCMP and B.C. Wildfire also had members on scene,” said Vernon Fire Captain Dean Wakefield

Chief Lind said there is evidence of small caliber fireworks being set off in the vicinity.

“What appears to be a careless act has placed residents and property at risk and it has required significant resources to mitigate the incident. I want to remind those responsible that you place others at risk with this type of behaviour.”

Lind added a person could face significant fines, penalties and even jail time should their actions be found to have contributed to a loss of life or property.

“Someone found to have caused a fire such as this can be held responsible for the full cost of extinguishing the fire.”

RCMP are investigating.

Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact the Vernon North Okanagan RCMP at 250.545.7171 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222- 8477.

by Pete McIntyre

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