Two small fires kept Vernon firefighters busy in the downtown core early Wednesday morning, July 31.
The fires sparked around 3:20 a.m., with the first located near Corbett Office Plus on 30th Avenue, and the second reported shortly afterwards near Fisher's Home Hardware, according to communications manager Carolyn Baldridge.
Vernon Fire Rescue Services (VFRS) responded and promptly extinguished the fires.
Baldridge confirmed that the fires were human-caused, and said VFRS is working with the RCMP to determine the exact cause.
VFRS advised the Vernon North Okanagan RCMP of the incidents, but RCMP media relations officer Cpl. Tania Finn said police attendance was not required.
The fires come two days after the city reported ongoing issues with human-caused fires of late.
On Monday, the city said in a release that Vernon firefighters had responded to a number of small, human-caused grassland fires and open burning complaints throughout the city over the past week. All of the fires were quickly extinguished, did not risk burning structures or vehicles, and were not considered suspicious.
“It only takes a small spark to create a dangerous situation,” deputy fire chief Alan Hofsink said Monday. “We are asking everyone in the community to remain vigilant and understand that despite cool temperatures and some precipitation, conditions remain extremely dry. We urge everyone to use extreme caution while spending time outdoors and be fire safe.”
Vernon's fire danger rating is currently 'extreme,' as it has been since July 10. A fire ban is also in place, meaning campfires and open burning is prohibited in the city until further notice.
If you see a wildfire report it by calling the BC Wildfire Service at 1-800-663-5555 toll-free or *5555 on a cellphone. To report a fire in city limits, call 911.
