Campfire ban continues in Central Okanagan

Sep 10, 2021 | 10:50 AM Pete McIntyre

A ban on campfires continues across the Central Okanagan, even though they are allowed again outside of fire protection areas within the Kamloops Fire Centre as of noon .

Central Okanagan fire chiefs agree that the continued high fire danger rating and ongoing dry conditions mean the campfire ban will continue.

“Until there is a significant reduction in the danger rating and in light of recent wildfires affecting the Central Okanagan, it’s prudent to keep the campfire prohibition in place. Campfires have not been allowed in the region since June 30,” said a news release from the Regional District of Central Okanagan.

The campfire ban affects all local government fire jurisdictions in the Regional District of Central Okanagan including the City of West Kelowna, District of Lake Country, District of Peachland, Westbank First Nation and the Ellison, Joe Rich, North Westside and Wilson’s Landing service areas in the Central Okanagan East and West Electoral Areas. Campfires are not permitted at any time within the City of Kelowna.

Violators could receive a fine and be charged the cost of the fire department response to a burning complaint. Residents are encouraged to report anyone who is illegally burning by calling the Regional Fire Dispatch Centre at 250-469-8577.

Fire departments throughout the Central Okanagan remind residents and visitors that all smoking materials should be fully extinguished and motorists are reminded to use ashtrays and not throw cigarettes or other smoking materials from their vehicle.

Please remember that smoking is not allowed in any local parks in the Central Okanagan. Smoking is also prohibited in children’s play areas, sports fields, undeveloped parks and wilderness trails in the District of Peachland.

In addition, to prevent accidental fires and injuries, all fireworks are banned within the Central Okanagan, unless specifically permitted by a local fire department. As well, all open burning has been prohibited within the Central Okanagan since April 30.