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Kelowna  

Fire risk closes Knox Drive

The City of Kelowna has closed the upper portion of Knox Mountain Park Drive to vehicle traffic.

The closure comes as the fire risk has reached extreme.

While vehicle traffic is restricted to the first lookout, the entire mountain is still accessible for those wishing to hike or bike.

“Not only have we been experiencing hot weather the past few days, but the forecast shows that temperatures will continue to climb. This puts our parks at risk of becoming extremely dry, which increases fire hazard,” says Blair Stewart, parks services manager.

“We still encourage the public to visit Knox Mountain, but to be cautious and understand that hot, dry conditions come with potential fire risks.”

The upper portion of the road will remain closed until it is deemed safe to reopen.

Residents are reminded that campfires and barbecues are not allowed in city or regional district parks, with the exception of barbecues on beaches. Smoking is also prohibited in all natural areas.

Park users and neighbours are asked to be vigilant. Anyone noticing smoke or fire in any park should immediately call *5555, the BC Wildfire Management Branch, or 911 to speak to the fire department.



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