Campfire sparked wildfire in West Kelowna’s Kalamoir Park

Investigators found the cause of the Kalamoir Park fire that caused evacuations earlier this week.

BC Wildfire Service, RCMP and West Kelowna Fire Rescue investigators determined that the fire was likely caused by an escaped campfire, according to a press release from West Kelowna
Fire Rescue issued today, June 19.

The June 16 wildfire caused an evacuation order for hundreds of homes and evacuation alerts for hundreds more.

“This wildfire demonstrates how quickly a fire can grow and that only a small spark can have potentially devastating impacts,” West Kelowna’s fire chief Jason Brolund said in the release.

“The public is urged to be vigilant, be responsible and be extremely cautious with fire, sparks and sources of heat as we move into wildfire season.”

The fire ended up burning a total of 9.4 hectares and is currently listed as under control. There may be some lingering smoke and firefighting activity in the area. The park is still closed.

The RCMP is still investigating to find those responsible for the fire.

Campfires are never allowed in Regional or West Kelowna Parks, and people could be fined up to $1,000.