Kelowna RCMP/Vernon Matters Staff

By Vernon Matters Staff

Staying safe

Kelowna boosts safety measures ahead of busy Canada Day celebrations

Jun 30, 2025 | 11:08 AM

As one of the city’s busiest summer events approaches, Kelowna’s fire and protective services are urging residents and visitors to make safety a priority during Canada Day celebrations.

“Canada Day is one of our city’s most exciting and busiest days of the year,” said Kevin Mead, acting community safety director. “Our city’s community safety operations teams and community partners will be working together to ensure we can all safely enjoy the celebrations.”

Protective services will be increasing patrols throughout the weekend, including a stronger presence in the downtown core and other neighbourhoods.

Bylaw officers will boost foot, bike and vehicle patrols, while Kelowna RCMP will add foot, bike, boat and ATV patrols in high-traffic and hard-to-reach areas. Additional patrols will also be available in the downtown and Rutland business improvement areas to respond to safety concerns.

The Kelowna Fire Department will also be enhancing its response capabilities. Fire crews will provide on-site support with a utility terrain vehicle, bush truck and operations support trailer. A marine rescue boat will also be deployed to respond to shoreline wildfires, water rescues and boating emergencies.

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As in past years, the fire department has approved a fireworks permit for the annual show hosted by Festivals Kelowna in Waterfront Park. However, officials will continue to monitor weather conditions, including wind and drought risk, and may cancel the display if wildfire danger increases.

“Even though we have experienced a cooler, damp spring, we are still in drought conditions,” said Assistant Fire Chief Dennis Craig. “Under these conditions, potential fuels such as trees and woody debris can ignite quickly and have devastating consequences.”

Campfires remain banned within Kelowna city limits, and fireworks, binary explosives and sky lanterns are currently prohibited throughout the Okanagan under a Category 2 fire ban issued June 13 by BC Wildfire Service.

Officials are reminding the public that everyone has a role to play in keeping the city safe. Residents and visitors are encouraged to report any suspicious activity or safety concerns to the appropriate authorities.