Vernon Fire Rescue Service stock photo courtesy of City of Vernon / Facebook

By Liam Verster

Fire Danger

Heat wave on way: Everyone urged to vigilant with fires

Jul 4, 2024 | 11:00 AM

The mercury is set to increase over the coming days, and area residents are advised to prepare for elevated fire risks.

The forecast for Vernon calls for the temperature to reach as high as 37° Celsius Monday, July 8, and the City of Vernon and Vernon Fire Rescue say hot and dry conditions can increase the fire danger rating from moderate to extreme quite quickly.

“With the expected increase of temperatures over the next few weeks, and the prevalent drought conditions in the area, it is imperative that everyone remain vigilant and follow appropriate fire smart practices in and around homes as well as when out in the back country and while enjoying a campfire,” Deputy Chief Brian Parsons said.

“We need to work together to keep our community safe from fire hazards all year long, but we must be even more cautious during these hot Okanagan summers.”

People are urged to reduce the risk of causing a fire by safely discarding cigarettes and smoking materials.

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Caution is also urged for those using machinery that produce sparks such as welders, mowers, grinders and other equipment that could strike a rock and ignite a fire. Those using these tools should have fire suppression systems and equipment readily available.

People using off-road vehicles should ensure their machines are equipped with spark arrestors.

Open burning, fireworks and sky lanterns are not permitted within the City of Vernon boundaries or the Kamloops Fire Centre area. The use of binary exploding targets, air curtain burners, and burn barrels or cages are also not permitted anywhere within the Kamloops Fire Centre.

Fires spotted within city limits should be reported to 911. Anyone who sees a wildfire is advised to call the B.C. Wildfire Service toll-free at 1-800-663-5555 or by dialing *5555 on a cell phone.