Kelowna Fire Department says wildfire started near homeless camp

Photo: Contributed

A brush fire near UBC Okanagan was started from a homeless camp.

Just after 2:15 p.m. the Kelowna Regional Dispatch Centre received multiple reports of black smoke near the end of Acadia St.

Crews located a 50 ft. by 50 ft. brush fire with rank two intensity. No structures were threatened and crews were able to quickly contain and extinguish the fire without injury to firefighters or the public.

The fire is deemed accidental.

The Kelowna Fire Department responded with three engines, a bush truck and a command unit including 15 fire personnel.

RCMP also assisted and BCWS had ground crews and air support on standby.

The Kelowna Fire Department would like to remind the public to be careful with any ignition source and that all fires are currently banned within the Kamloops Fire Centre due to the dangerous fire conditions.

Campfires are also prohibited within the City of Kelowna at all times of the year.

ORIGINAL 2:15 p.m.

A grass fire close to UBC Okanagan along Vint Road has reportedly been extinguished by the Kelowna Fire Department.

Crews were called to the scene after 2:30 p.m. Sunday after reports of smoke in the area.

A Castanet viewer reported seeing several trees engulfed in flame.

At this time it is unknown what caused the fire. Castanet has requested more detail from the Kelowna Fire Department.

Crews remain on the scene putting out hot spots.

Photo: Contributed