Image Credit: CFJC Today

By Sydney Chisholm

wildfire risks

No fires in immediate Kamloops area yet, but Kamloops Fire Rescue urges caution

Jul 19, 2024 | 5:30 PM

KAMLOOPS – The City of Kamloops has been fortunate so far this wildfire season – there have been no major fires directly impacting the city.

The closest known fire is at Porcupine Meadows Provincial Park. It is currently listed at 20 hectares. Kamloops Fire Rescue Chief Ken Uzeloc says this fire is being closely monitored by the city.

However, continued hot and dry conditions has Kamloops Fire Rescue urging caution for residents.

“Everything is back to being dry, so we really need citizens to do their best, be vigilant, avoid those unsafe behaviours, no open fires,” said Uzeloc. “Really, if you see something, don’t worry if it turns out not to be a fire, we’re good with that. We’d rather go and check things out early than wait for something really to become involved.”

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Despite a higher fire risk in the city, Uzeloc says there are no plans to close city nature parks unless a fire is directly impacting that area.

“That is primarily due to making sure that we have eyes out in those areas in case something does spark,” explained Uzeloc. “Again, no smoking in parks is allowed, no fires in parks are allowed,” he added.

“Don’t be taking your motorized off-road vehicles into parks and things, right now it’s too dry. A hot muffler can be enough to set something off.”