Individuals ignore open fire ban and launch fireworks in Vernon

Someone set off fireworks in Vernon yesterday in the middle of an open fire ban. The fireworks were set off during the evening of July 9 in the Okanagan Landing area, according to a City of Vernon media release. The fire department received multiple complaints about the fireworks...

Individuals ignore open fire ban and launch fireworks in Vernon
Someone set off fireworks in Vernon yesterday in the middle of an open fire ban. The fireworks were set off during the evening of July 9 in the Okanagan Landing area, according to a City of Vernon media release. The fire department received multiple complaints about the fireworks but the people setting them off haven't been identified. “With the extreme temperatures and prolonged drought conditions currently being experienced, it is important residents and visitors remain vigilant and take care to ensure that activities undertaken are not a source of fire ignition,” deputy fire chief Brain Parsons said in the release. “Also, a reminder that fireworks, sky lanterns and campfires are banned in the area. Contravention to these orders could result in significant fines.” Convicted individuals may face fines up to $100,000 or one year of jail time if open burning ban is violated. If a violation is the cause of a wildfire, the individual at fault may be responsible to pay for damages to Crown resources and firefighting expenses. To report a fire inside city limits call 911. To report a wildfire call 1 800 663-5555 or dial *5555 on a cellphone. For the latest information on current wildfire activity across BC, visit bcwildfire.ca https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/safety/wildfire-status . To contact a reporter for this story, email Bailey Zimmer mailto:bzimmer@infonews.ca  or call 250-808-0143 or email the editor mailto:news@infonews.ca . You can also submit photos, videos or news tips to the newsroom mailto:tips@infonews.ca  and be entered to win a monthly prize draw. We welcome your comments and opinions on our stories but play nice. We won't censor or delete comments unless they contain off-topic statements or links, unnecessary vulgarity, false facts, spam or obviously fake profiles. If you have any concerns about what you see in comments, email the editor in the link above. SUBSCRIBE to our awesome newsletter here https://infotel.ca/newsletter .