Unexploded ordinance slows efforts to extinguish brush fire near Vernon

Unexploded ordinance has been discovered in and around the Boltres Creek wildfire just south of Vernon.

The 103 hectare, human-caused brush fire broke out this past Sunday afternoon, Aug. 17, is considered under control by BC Wildfire Service, but Vernon Fire Rescue crews continue to work to completely put out the blaze.

The discovery of the unexploded ordnance, or UXOs, means Vernon firefighters are taking a cautious and targeted approach to dealing with hotspots which continue to produce visible smoke.

Only visible flames are being actioned by the fire department, according to a City of Vernon media release issued today, Aug. 21.

“Traditional grid sweeps cannot be completed due to the UXO hazard, however, the site is being closely monitored for hot spots through a combination of regular perimeter checks and remote surveillance via the City’s SenseNet camera system,” the release reads.

The city says the safety of firefighters and the public is its priority and its working with “appropriate agencies” to manage the risks of the unexploded ordinance.

When the fire broke on Sunday it triggered a local state of emergency and the tactical evacuation of about 20 properties on Commonage Road from Rose’s Pond to the Allan Brookes Nature Centre. It was a short-lived evacuation with the residents allowed to return home.