Forests dry, rating extreme

Photo: The Canadian Press

The fire danger rating in the Central Okanagan is extreme.

It didn't take long for forests in the Central Okanagan to dry out and the fire danger rating to reach extreme.

Hot, dry weather over the past week, and a forecast for more of the same, has prompted the rating. It is expected to stay in the high to extreme range for quite some time.

Fire departments throughout the Central Okanagan are asking residents and visitors to be extremely careful with the use of fire and any fuel source. Smoking materials should be carefully extinguished and motorists should not toss cigarettes or other smoking materials from moving vehicles.

Smoking is also prohibited in regional and municipal parks.

There is also a ban on open burning. Violators could be fined and charged the cost of firefighting costs.

Currently, campfires are still allowed, with size restrictions, in West Kelowna, Lake Country, Peachland and the Central Okanagan east and west electoral areas. Campfires are not allowed at any time of year in the City of Kelowna.

Anyone who sees smoke or fire should immediately call 911 or *5555 on a cellphone.