Effective 12:00 p.m. today, Friday, June 13, the BC Wildfire Service will issue Category 2 burn prohibitions alongside the already prohibited Category 3 open fires throughout the Kamloops Fire Centre’s jurisdiction. With that, the RDNO reminds Electoral Area B and C residents that open burning in these areas has been restricted since April 30.
Residents across the North Okanagan, particularly those in remote or hard-to-reach areas, are encouraged to learn about FireSmart principles and take proactive steps to safeguard their properties. The RDNO recently launched two new FireSmart Pilot Projects for Electoral Area residents to help manage FireSmart debris. Yard and garden waste is accepted at most RDNO Diversion and Disposal Facilities for residents with no other debris management options.
“Federal and Provincial agencies are now better equipped to forecast high-risk seasons with greater precision,” said Alastair Crick, Protective Services Manager. “This improved foresight allows us to engage earlier with residents about the importance of being prepared and the benefits of reducing fire hazards around their homes.”
Through the RDNO FireSmart Home Assessment Program, a FireSmart Technician is available to meet with residents and groups in the area to provide advice on what can be achieved and methods to reduce the risk. Information on this program can be found at www.rdno.ca/homeassessment
Residents and visitors are also encouraged to download and subscribe to the RDNO emergency notification system, Alertable, to receive timely updates and announcements regarding urgent and emergency matters. Learn more at www.rdno.ca/alertable.
For more information on fire bans, restrictions, and fire preparedness strategies, please visit www.gov.bc.ca.
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For media inquiries:
Stacey Raftus, Communications Officer
communications@rdno.ca