Regional Approach to Parks Closures
Central Okanagan, B.C. – Due to the ongoing fire danger facing the community, the member municipalities of the Regional Emergency Program have agreed on a united approach to parks closures in the Central Okanagan.
Representatives from fire and parks departments from Kelowna, West Kelowna, Lake Country, Peachland and the Regional District of Central Okanagan met to determine the criteria for when parks will be closed. The criteria include the following considerations:
- At least three days of extreme fire danger rating (as observed at West Kelowna fire station)
- Access/egress limitations and the potential for entrapment of park users
- Fire suppression resource limitations, including manpower, water sources, equipment, and provincial support
- Critical infrastructure including communication towers, utilities, reservoirs and pump stations
- High risk interface areas respecting topography, aspect, fuel loading and areas that have not received fuel treatments
- History involving previous fire issues, transient camping and bush parties
- Communication/consistency with Province and other jurisdictions
Check local municipal websites for specific park closures.
Residents and visitors to the Okanagan are reminded that campfires are banned and smoking is not allowed in area parks. People observed disobeying these regulations will be fined; fines can be as much as $500. The public is asked to use extreme caution when accessing the back country or forested areas during this sensitive time.
