Vernon police are seeking information and offering a stern reminder of park rules after a wildfire in Kalamalka Lake Provincial Park was traced back to an illegal campsite.
The fire broke out around 6:30 p.m. Monday, June 16, and was with the help of Coldstream fire crews after it was promptly reported by a member of the public.
The Coldstream Fire Department and BC Wildfire Service responded to the fire in the area of the park's red gate. The fire was started at an illegal campsite and was fortunately contained before it could spread, according to the Vernon North Okanagan RCMP.
"A rapid response by Coldstream and BC Wildfire Service prevented what could have been a much worse outcome given the dry conditions and proximity to residential areas," RCMP media relations officer Const. Chris Terleski said in a media release Tuesday. "With dry conditions and the risk of wildfire increasing, it鈥檚 critical that everyone respects rules and fire safety regulations. If you are having a legal campfire, it needs to be extinguished and cold to the touch before being left unattended."
Police are reminding the public that fires and camping are not permitted in Kal Park at any time of the year.
Any signs of fire or unauthorized activity should be reported to police immediately, the RCMP said, adding there is a serious risk associated with unattended campfires.
Police are now seeking information on the illegal campsite. Anyone with information or who witnessed any suspicious activity related to Monday evening's incident is urged to contact the Vernon RCMP at 250-545-7171 and quote file #2025-9529.
