Fire safety for Canada Day

As Canada Day approaches, the Kelowna Fire Department (KFD) urges residents to prioritize fire safety while celebrating this holiday long weekend.

Last year was the 20th anniversary of the Okanagan Mountain fire and last summer we experienced the McDougall Creek fire – strong reminders that our community is not immune to large wildfires. The KFD reminds Kelowna residents that it is everyone’s responsibility to put safety first and protect our community from fire during the dry summer season. 

“Canada Day is a time for joy and festivities, but it is crucial to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to prevent fire-related incidents that can dampen the spirit of the occasion,” said Dennis Craig, Assistant Fire Chief, Mitigation and Prevention, Kelowna Fire Department. “Even with the recent rainfall we have received, drought conditions continue and heavy fuels, such as trees and other woody debris, can take hold and catch fire easily. We want to remind residents and visitors that campfires are never allowed within the City of Kelowna and the Province of B.C. has also placed a province-wide ban on the use of unpermitted fireworks, binary explosives, and sky lanterns.” 

This year, the KFD has approved a fireworks permit for the annual July 1 Canada Day celebration hosted by Festivals Kelowna in Waterfront Park. Taking hot and dry conditions into account, the approval considered many factors, including that the fireworks will be deployed from a barge and the drop zone is over water. In addition, the individuals responsible for the safe deployment of the fireworks are registered with Natural Resources Canada and have met fireworks shoot requirements in accordance with the Fire and Life Safety Bylaw. 

“Fire danger is very real for our community in such a dry season,” said Craig. “We want to stress that fireworks are strictly prohibited without a permit from the Kelowna Fire Department and ask that the public not shoot fireworks off in their neighbourhoods. By following fire safety guidelines, all residents can enjoy a memorable Canada Day celebration while minimizing the risk of fire-related incidents.” 

The Canada Day long weekend and the kick-off to summer is a great time to get started on FireSmart projects that will keep homes safer during the holiday long weekend and throughout the year. Please keep the following in mind when preparing for summer season celebrations:  

• Fireworks are not allowed in the city without obtaining a fireworks permit from the Kelowna Fire Department. Permits are only issued to firework technicians licensed with Natural Resources Canada and who have adequate liability insurance.
• Bonfires/campfires are not allowed in city boundaries at any time. When using barbecues, do so in a safe location away from flammable objects and structures. Keep children and pets at a safe distance from the barbeque and never leave it unattended while in use.
• The KFD, along with FireSmart BC, recommend pruning back highly combustible vegetation – such as cedars, fir and spruce trees – at least 1.5 metres away from your home. 

For more information or fire safety tips, visit kelowna.ca/fire.