McDougall Creek fire (file photo/BC Wildfire)

By Vernon Matters Staff

Mitigation efforts

Get smart about fire now: West Kelowna Fire Chief

Apr 24, 2025 | 2:30 PM

West Kelowna is taking proactive steps to reduce wildfire risk, as fire officials warn the season could arrive earlier than usual depending on spring weather patterns.

A five acre wildfire mitigation project was completed this winter in the Shannon Lake area near Brookhaven Care Centre, as part of ongoing efforts to make the community safer ahead of peak fire season.

Speaking to Vernon Matters, West Kelowna Fire Chief Jason Brolund said while long range forecasts are still uncertain, current conditions mean residents should be on alert.

“It is too early to know exactly when wildfire season will hit,” Brolund said. “If May turns out hot and dry, the season could arrive sooner than expected.”

Despite recent cooler weather, Brolund stressed that now is the time for homeowners to take preventative steps to protect their properties. He pointed to the FireSmart program as a key tool in those efforts.

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“Taking a few hours to clean up around your home and making smart choices, like using plants from the FireSmart plant program, can make a difference if there is a fire in your neighbourhood,” he said.

The City of West Kelowna is also planning a FireSmart Family Day on May 24 to raise awareness and encourage residents to learn more about how to prepare their homes and communities for wildfire.

Brolund said the risk of fire is a shared responsibility and encouraged the public to act now.

“Regardless of what spring brings, we all have a role to play in preparing for the season ahead,” he said.

The wildfire mitigation work and FireSmart outreach are part of a broader effort across BC to address the growing challenges posed by climate change and extreme weather events.