Flood and fire seasons converge in Okanagan

Officials are reminding residents that wildfire season has arrived as Okanagan communities anticipate further flooding around local lakes and creeks.

“A wet spring and flooding in some areas can make people complacent about forest fires,” the Regional District of the Okanagan-Similkameen (RDOS) said in an information release Tuesday.

“High heat, predicted over the next few weeks, will rapidly increase the risk of fires. Everyone is asked to be Fire Smart.”

Upland areas are drying rapidly, despite soggy areas next to the lakes.

Wildland grasses are higher due to heavy spring rains, creating extra fuel for fire when the heat rises.

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B.C. Wildfire Service crews are in the valley sandbagging but can easily be called out to deal with wildfire situations in any Okanagan community at the same time.

“Having the support of the provincial firefighters has been a huge help in protecting homes, parks and critical infrastructure,” RDOS board chair Karla Kozakevich said. “But we recognize this help is dependent on them not being called away to deal with a forest fire.”

The RDOS said just about half of all forest fires in B.C. are caused by humans.

Some tips from the RDOS to prevent wildfire include:

• Never leave a fire unattended. Completely extinguish the fire—by dousing it with water
  and stirring the ashes until cold—before sleeping or leaving the campsite.
• When camping, take care when using and fueling vehicles, stoves, and heaters. Ensure
  lights and heating devices are cool before refueling. Avoid spilling flammable liquids and
  store fuel (correctly as prescribed) and away from appliances or sources of heat.
• Do not discard cigarettes, matches, and smoking materials from moving vehicles, or
  anywhere where they could catch fire. Be certain to completely extinguish cigarettes
  before disposing of them; preferably in a sealed fireproof can or jar.
• Don’t litter or illegally dump materials as these materials can help start fires.
• If you are allowed to burn yard waste, avoid backyard burning in windy conditions. Keep a
  shovel, water, and fire retardant nearby to keep fires in check. Remove all flammables or
  garbage from yard when burning.