Knox Mountain fire being held at 6.5 hectares
Kelowna, B.C. – Kelowna Fire Department and BC Wildfire remained on scene at Knox Mountain overnight managing some minor flare ups, mostly in the larger woody debris areas. The low-intensity fire is being held at 6.5 hectares. The evacuation alert for properties in Poplar Point, Knox Mountain, Magic Estates and Clifton areas will remain in place until Tuesday.
Knox Mountain Park, including the path to Paul’s Tomb, remains closed until further notice. City of Kelowna is reminding residents they are prohibited from entering the active fire zone. Failure to comply will result in an up to $500 fine.
“We’re still dealing with flareups and burning tree roots which can cause ember-filled sink holes,” said Sandra Follack, Deputy Fire Chief, Kelowna Fire Department. “People and their pets must stay out of the area for the safety of themselves and to avoid interfering with our fire crews and potentially creating a new incident.”
Lighter winds today are helping to hold the fire perimeter. Residents on Evacuation Alert should continue to be ready to leave at a moment’s notice. Some things to get ready include gathering key documents and medication, a list of key phone numbers, an evacuation plan including a plan for pets and animals, having a full tank of gas in the car and a 72-hour emergency kit. Visit cordemergency.ca/beprepared for more tips on how to get ready.
A map showing the list of roads and properties under evacuation alert can be viewed at cordemergency.ca/map.
Emergency response personnel request that the public:
- Stay safely away from Knox Mountain area so emergency responders can effectively perform their duties
- Please only call 911 in case of emergency
- For up-to-date information on the situation, including a map, and to sign up for e-updates, visit cordemergency.ca
- Information will also be provided via twitter.com/CO_Emerg and facebook.com/CORDEmergency
- A public information line is available at 250-469-8490 (local) or 1-877-569-8490 (toll-free)
The next update will be midday Monday.
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Media Contacts:
Media Line, Public Information Officer
(250) 469-8493
http://facebook.com/cordemergency
