File photo of Kamloops Fire Rescue engine (Image Credit: CFJC Today)

By Dylana Kneeshaw

FIRE PREVENTION

Spike in campfire incidents sparks reminder of dry condition risks in Kamloops, and social distancing

Mar 22, 2020 | 8:33 AM

KAMLOOPS — As warmer, spring weather begins to arrive in the region, Kamloops Fire Rescue is reminding the public to be fire smart with their outdoor activities.

KFR Platoon Captain Darryl Cooper says recently firefighters have been called to a number of smaller incidents within the local area.

“We’re seeing a spike in campfires around the city. Not just around the river, but in the Aberdeen area, up the station road, in Batchelor Heights,” he says, “I don’t know what’s causing it, but we want to remind people that even though it seems cool out there, the fuels are dry, and these fires can take off pretty quickly. Especially if there is wind – a wind-driven fire can cause a lot of damage.”

According to Cooper, springtime is when grassfires and other flare ups start to make an appearance around Kamloops, and KFR wants to keep preventable incidents to a minimum.

While there wasn’t a headcount taken when firefighters responded to these campfires, Cooper reminds residents that social distancing needs to be taken seriously right now.

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“Certainly get outside and enjoy the fresh air, and the sunshine, but keep your distance,” he cautions, “We’ve seen a spike of incidents with respiratory issues, and we want to keep everybody healthy.”