A hedge fire near KGH in Kelowna has prompted reminders about FireSmart practices/Screengrab Darren Dutchak

By Jamie Tawil

Fire safety

‘Tinder dry’ hedge goes up in flames near Kelowna General Hospital: Video

May 7, 2025 | 10:18 AM

A dramatic fire near Kelowna General Hospital is prompting renewed calls for caution in the Okanagan, as extremely dry vegetation poses a growing risk across the region.

The fire broke out Tuesday night in the 2100 block of Pandosy Street, right beside the historic Anne Stirling heritage home. A video posted to social media shows flames ripping over 20 feet into the night sky, fully engulfing a hedge and coming dangerously close to the home.

See video below.

“With a fire this intense, it’s impossible to tell what may have sparked it,” Kelowna Fire Department assistant chief Eric Grootendorst told Vernon Matters. “But this can be used as an example of just how tinder dry these hedges can be this time of year.”

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The blaze started shortly before 10:15 p.m. and was first attacked by RCMP officers who arrived with fire extinguishers and managed to hold back the flames. Fire crews arrived within minutes with two engines and fully knocked down the fire before it could spread further.

“RCMP responded within minutes and managed to douse some of the flames, keeping it from spreading any further,” said Grootendorst.

No injuries were reported, and the heritage home escaped damage. The fire is not considered suspicious and is believed to be accidental.

The timing of the blaze has underscored the importance of preparation. It happened during Emergency Preparedness Week, which runs from May 4 to 10, and fire officials are urging Okanagan residents to take steps now to reduce risk — including clearing brush, keeping extinguishers handy and reviewing evacuation plans.

With warm weather and a lack of rainfall, fire danger is expected to remain high in the Okanagan well into the season.

Residents are reminded to call 911 immediately if they spot smoke or fire.