UPDATE: Temporary fire ban issued for South Okangan, Similkameen

PENTICTON – A temporary open fire ban has been issued for the South Okanagan and Similkameen today.

The Regional District of Okanagan Similkameen has issued a ban on all open burning, including campfires. The ban includes Penticton, Oliver, Osoyoos, Summerland, Princeton, Hedley and the Penticton Indian Band.

The fire bans went into effect at noon today, July 7, due to the current high fire danger rating.

In Penticton, the ban includes fire pits on the beaches. The fire pits have been covered and closed on the beaches on both Okanagan Lake and Skaha Lake until further notice.

It's probably a good idea to check with your local government before lighting a campfire or doing any other open burning.

Operators of motorized vehicles are also advised to limit use of any motorized vehicle in tall grass and vegetation as heat from exhaust systems could be a source of ignition.

The Penticton Indian Band says guests on the reserve will need an access permit from the Lands Department. Anyone without authorization will be considered trespassers and will be removed, according to a media release.

The Regional District says the fine for open burning, including campfires, is up to $345.00 per incident. Anyone who causes a wildfire through arson or recklessness may also be fined up to $1 million, spend up to three years in prison and be held accountable for the associated firefighting costs.

The province has issued campfire bans for most of the Southern Interior, including the Kamloops Fire Centre.

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