Kamloops Fire Rescue Ask Residents to Remain Vigilant of Dry Conditions

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Kamloops Fire Rescue is asking residents to be cautious in our nature parks, grasslands, and interface areas. As we experience warmer temperatures, grasses and fine fuels become very dry and can ignite easily.

The BC Wildfire Service fire rating for the Kamloops Fire Centre indicates a high and extreme risk for areas within Kamloops. Residents are asked to be vigilant and aware of the dry conditions and to be aware of the risks of interface wildfires.

“At this time of year, we are subject to thunderstorms, which also adds to our risk. BC Wildfire Services reviews and updates fire danger ratings daily based on weather station data,” said Ryan Cail, Deputy Fire Chief, Kamloops Fire Rescue. “We all have a responsibility to do our part to help keep our neighbours and community safe. If you see something, report it.”

Cigarette butts that are carelessly thrown out of windows or improperly discarded in other ways lead to wildfires every year. Please safely discard all smoking materials in approved containers. ATVs are another source of potential heat and spark, so please stay on approved roadways when operating these vehicles. 

Residents are reminded that backyard and beach fires are banned throughout the city. This means backyard fires, fire pits, and any other type of outdoor wood-burning appliances are not allowed. This does not include propane or natural gas fire pits. 

When working in your yard, use caution when using gas-powered tools, welding equipment, or engaging in any activity that might spark a fire. Always keep a source of water and a shovel nearby. 

A Category 3 open fire prohibition is also in place for the Kamloops Fire Centre region. To stay up to date on open fire prohibitions in the Kamloops Fire Centre, visit the BC Wildfire Service website or access the information through the BC Wildfire Service app, where up to three photos can be submitted when you report a wildfire. Photos submitted through the app help the BC Wildfire Service operational staff determine:

  • fuel type
  • terrain
  • fire behaviour and intensity (by looking at the smoke colour, column size, and wind direction)
  • current weather on site
  • additional location information

 If you see a fire within city limits, dial 911 and report it. Outside of city limits, call 911 or *5555 from a cell phone. When reporting, the following information is key to first responders:

  • exact location and size (the size of a campfire, a car, a house, a football field, etc.)
  • colour, density, and volume of smoke (white, gray, brown, black, etc.)
  • wind speed and direction (which way the smoke is blowing)
  • type of vegetation and spacing (in trees, grass, etc.)
  • terrain (steep, flat, etc.)
  • valuables at risk (near homes, structures, etc.)
  • access (near a main road or on a trail, street names, etc.)
  • resources currently in use (someone is already fighting the fire and with what)

Resources:

Kamloops Fire Rescue and the City of Kamloops work hard to keep our city safe. For information on emergency preparedness, please visit Kamloops.ca/EmergencyPreparedness