Crews respond to wildfires above West Kelowna Wednesday/RCMP

By Vernon Matters Staff

dangerous behaviour?

Fireworks may have caused two small wildfires above West Kelowna

Aug 14, 2025 | 5:00 PM

It’s possible the two wildfires high above West Kelowna were caused by fireworks, according to RCMP.

West Kelowna Fire and Rescue, along with the BC Wildfire Service, responded with ground crews and aerial support, including helicopters. The first fire was reported around 11 a.m. Wednesday and the second at about 3 p.m.

There was no spread, but the outcome may have been very different given the high winds.

Authorities said the two fires, within 500-metres of each other in the Smith Creek and Dixie Road area, may be related to a reported sighting of people on a Utility Task Vehicle (UTV) setting off fireworks Tuesday night around 10:45 p.m. Police said the UTV has since been located, and the investigation is ongoing. The RCMP and Ministry of Forests Compliance and Enforcement Branch are working to determine the origin of the fires.

The West Kelowna RCMP reminds the public to exercise caution and responsibility during summer activities and encourage people to avoid engaging in any behaviour that could potentially cause a risk to the public, property, or environment — particularly actions that may lead to wildfires.

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Anyone with information regarding this wildfire is asked to contact the West Kelowna RCMP at 250-768-2880.

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