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Open burning season in effect for the South Okanagan-Similkameen

Fire chiefs may choose to delay the start of the season, amid the drier than normal conditions
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(Black Press File)

It’s almost that time of year again.

Open burning season is in effect from Oct. 15 to April 15, the Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen has announced.

Due to drier than normal conditions, fire chiefs may choose to delay the start of the designated period, or extend or reduce the burning season should conditions allow or require it.

Residents within the five RDOS-protected areas — Anarchist Mountain, Kaleden, Naramata, Okanagan Falls, and Willowbrook —are required to complete a burn authorization application form.

In Willowbrook, fire chief Tony Iannella is reminding the public that although open burning and campfires are permitted from Oct. 15 to April 15, they must be safeguarded.

“If your property is located outside the areas listed above, please check with your local authority,” it reads in a press release.

Burn authorization holders are asked to be mindful of the following:

• Ensure you are only burning permitted materials

• Ensure you are following safe burning practices including not burning when unsafe to do so

• Ensure you are monitoring the burn at all times and that the fire is completely out and cold when finished

• Fire Chief may suspend any burning at any time should they deem it unsafe or smoke is creating an issue

• Be mindful of smoke affecting your neighbours

People are asked to contact their local fire chief for more information about open burning season within the five RDOS protected areas.

READ MORE: Campfire ban lifted in some areas of Kamloops Fire Centre


@lgllockhart
logan.lockhart@pentictonwesternnews.com