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Open fires banned in Summerland

Dry conditions led to implementation of campfire ban
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Because of the hot, dry conditions, open fires are now prohibited in Summerland.

“It’s very dry,” said assistant fire chief George Pugh. “The danger rating is extreme.”

The open fire ban took effect on July 7 at noon, in an effort to protect public safety and limit the risk of person-caused fires.

Anyone violating this ban may be issued a ticket for $345 and may be required to pay an administrative penalty of $10,000.

If convicted in court, the fine could reach up to $100,000 and a one-year jail sentence.

If a violation results in a wildfire, the person responsible may be ordered to pay all firefighting and associated costs.

The ban does not restrict the use of fires in stoves using gas, propane or briquettes.

Open fires and campfires are banned in provincial parks, crown lands and private lands in most parts of the province, including the Kamloops Fire Centre, which manages the South Okanagan.

The Regional District of Okanagan Similkameen also has an open fire ban in place.



John Arendt

About the Author: John Arendt

John Arendt has worked as a journalist for more than 30 years. He has a Bachelor of Applied Arts in Journalism degree from Ryerson Polytechnical Institute.
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