VERNON – The BC Wildfire Service (BCWS) will be supporting BC Parks in conducting a prescribed burn covering up to 7.6 hectares in Ellison Provincial Park, approximately 3 kilometres southwest of Vernon.
Smoke may be visible from Vernon, Okanagan Indian Band, Lake Country and surrounding areas.
The exact timing of this burn will depend on weather and site conditions, but it could begin as early as Tuesday, March 18, 2025. Burning will proceed if conditions are suitable and allow for smoke dispersal during burn operations, though smoke may also linger in the following days.
This prescribed burn is part of the ongoing work being done for a long-term Wildfire Risk Reduction (WRR) project in the park. The primary goal of WRR projects is to remove forest fuels to reduce the long-term risk and intensity of wildfire.
Fire is a normal and natural process in many of B.C.’s ecosystems. The BC Wildfire Service works regularly with a range of partners to undertake fuel management activities (including the use of controlled burns), to help reduce the severity of future wildfires and related threats to communities. These projects are carefully planned and only go ahead at the right times and under the right conditions to ensure community and practitioner safety.
Visit the BC Wildfire Service Cultural and prescribed fire webpage for more information.
Exposure to smoke can irritate eyes and respiratory tracts and worsen pre-existing lung and heart conditions. If your area is impacted by smoke:
• Run portable air cleaners with windows and doors closed. Both commercial and home-made units (https://rb.gy/90uh5s) can be effective if operated properly.
• Reduce the length and intensity of outdoor activities.
• Manage pre-existing conditions and seek medical care if you have severe symptoms.
Learn more about protecting health from smoke online: http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/prevention-public-health/wildfire-smoke
You can follow the latest wildfire news on:
• the free BC Wildfire Service app, available for Apple (iOS) and Android devices
• Facebook at: http://facebook.com/BCForestFireInfo
Contact:
Ryan Elphick
Area Supervisor, North Okanagan
Parks and Recreation Program/Ministry of Environment and Parks
ryan.elphick@gov.bc.ca
778 622-6904
Fire Information Officer
BC Wildfire Service
Kamloops Fire Centre
250-554-5965
BCWS.KFCInfo@gov.bc.ca
Connect with the Province of B.C. at www.gov.bc.ca/connect.