A crew performing wildfire mitigation in the North Okanagan stumbled across a likely piece of military history on Thursday morning.
However, it’s not the type of item you’d want to keep.
Vernon RCMP say the crew located a possible unexploded mortar round, with the weapon’s tail fins sticking out of the ground along a hiking trail in Kalamalka Provincial Park.
Police say they were notified and that officers are on scene and, for safety reasons, have cordoned off the area.
“The area historically had been a training area for the military and used as a firing range for mortars and other ordnance,” said Const. Chris Terleski. “Similar items have been found in the past by park users.
“We’ve consulted with our RCMP Explosives Disposal Unit and given the fact that the item is believed to be of military origin, we have secured the area and are awaiting direction from the Canadian Forces.”
Police say the possible weapon was found around 9:15 a.m., just off the Sidewinder Trail in the Cosens Bay area.
Four years ago, in 2020, two hikers found an exploded mortar in May, with another hiker finding an unexploded ordnance in September.
“Even though it has been decades since this area was last used by the military, every year these devices are located by the public,” RCMP said at the time.
“It is important that users of park stay on established trails and alert police if a device is found.”
The Canadian military gave the following tips when it comes to finding items that may look like unexploded ordnance (UXO).
- Do not touch it, move it, throw things at it or strike it with other objects
- If disturbed, a UXO can explode, causing death or injury
- Note the location and leave the area
- Remember where you saw the object
- Prevent others from entering the area
- Call 911 or local police
The military says if the public has any questions about DND’s UXO activities and issues, they are invited to contact them by e-mail at UXOCanada@forces.gc.ca.
“Through its UXO program, the Department of National Defence is working to reduce UXO risks at former military sites across Canada and ensure these areas are safe for Canadians,” said the military.
More information about UXOs is available online.