KAMLOOPS, B.C.: With Canada Day celebrations approaching, Kamloops Fire Rescue Chief Ken Uzeloc is reminding residents that a strict ban on personal fireworks remains in place across the city. The reminder aligns with recent restrictions from the B.C. Wildfire Service, which has prohibited fireworks across multiple regional fire centres, primarily targeting rural areas.
Earlier this year, Kamloops City Council updated local bylaws to heavily penalize the possession, storage, and discharging of personal fireworks, making offenses punishable by a $1,000 fine. Chief Uzeloc clarified that while the city will still host a signature fireworks display on July 1st, the show will be executed exclusively by certified, permitted pyrotechnic professionals. These experts are trained to assess environmental conditions and have proper suppression measures ready on-site.
The updated bylaws aim to prevent untrained residents from accidentally igniting a blaze. Chief Uzeloc issued a stern warning to anyone planning to bypass the rules, noting that violators will face substantial fines and could be held financially liable for any firefighting costs incurred as a result of an illegal fire.
The B.C. Wildfire Service recently warned that the province is entering a hot, dry summer, which will significantly elevate the risk of wildfires. In a recent weather update, officials noted that high temperatures combined with shifting winds—potentially gusting up to 80 km/h—are expected across several regions, making it crucial for the public to avoid any activity that could spark a wildfire.
