The British Columbia Wildfire Service (BCWS) and the Lake Country Fire Department are joining forces to combat a wildfire near a winery in the Kelowna area.
According to reports, the fire was first spotted on Monday afternoon and has since grown to approximately 1.5 hectares in size. The BCWS has classified it as a “wildfire of note,” meaning it has the potential to become more serious.
The fire is located near the Gray Monk Estate Winery on Okanagan Centre Road East. The winery has been evacuated as a precautionary measure, and no injuries have been reported.
The BCWS has deployed 20 firefighters, two helicopters, and two air tankers to the scene. The Lake Country Fire Department has also sent out multiple crews and equipment to assist in containing the fire.
As of Tuesday morning, the fire is 50% contained, and crews are working diligently to fully extinguish it. The cause of the fire is still under investigation.
Residents in the area are advised to stay vigilant and follow any evacuation orders or alerts issued by authorities. The BCWS has also implemented a temporary area restriction to ensure the safety of both residents and firefighters.
The BCWS and the Lake Country Fire Department are reminding the public to be cautious and responsible when it comes to fire safety, especially during the hot and dry summer months. They urge everyone to follow all fire bans and restrictions in place and to report any suspicious or illegal activity that may lead to wildfires.
The collaboration between the BCWS and the Lake Country Fire Department is a testament to their dedication and expertise in protecting the community from the threat of wildfires. Their swift response and coordinated efforts have helped to minimize the impact of the fire and keep the public safe.
As the situation continues to develop, the BCWS and the Lake Country Fire Department will provide updates and information to the public. In the meantime, they are urging everyone to stay informed and prepared in case of any further developments.
The safety and well-being of the community is the top priority for both the BCWS and the Lake Country Fire Department, and they will continue to work tirelessly to ensure that the wildfire near the winery is brought under control.