Smoke from the Boltres Creek wildfire shortly after the fire spread up the hill south of Vernon Sunday, Aug. 17, 2025 (Photo courtesy: B.C. Wildfire Service)

By Liam Verster

Unexploded Ordinance Found at Wildfire Site

Unexploded ordnance found at site of wildfire south of Vernon

Aug 21, 2025 | 3:51 PM

Fire crews have been taking extra precautions at the site of the fire south of Vernon after unexploded explosive ordnance (UXO) was found in the area.

The City of Vernon confirmed it was found in the fire area by Vernon Fire Rescue Services (VFRS) in the wake of the Boltres Creek wildfire, which burned 103 hectares of grassland off HWY 97 near the Greater Vernon Disposal and Diversion facility. No details were provided on exactly what type of UXOs were found.

The City said VFRS was monitoring the site and extinguishing visible flames, but added crews were taking extra precautions and a targeted approach to suppression efforts due to the discovery.

“Traditional grid sweeps cannot be completed due to the UXO hazard, however, the site is being closely monitored for hot spots through a combination of regular perimeter checks and remote surveillance via the City’s SenseNet camera system,” the city said in a statement to Vernon Matters.

“The safety of first responders and the public is our priority, and the City is working in coordination with appropriate agencies to assess and manage risks related to the UXOs.”

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Smoke may be visible in the coming days as crews continue their work at the wildfire site.

The Department of National Defence had two ranges, located partly within the Okanagan Indian Reserve No. 1, between 1943 and 1990. Those ranges were used for military training activities, including live-firing explosive ordnance such as artillery and mortars.

The City of Vernon did not say if the device located by VRFS was one such item.

UXOs pose a serious risk of injury or death if they explode. These items and munition scraps can also cause environmental contamination.