The public is appreciated by the Kelowna Fire Department for alerting authorities to two fires at homeless encampments early on Saturday.
When the initial fire broke out, it was close to the 2600 block of Enterprise Way, and about 6:30 a.m., many callers alerted the local dispatch centre.
Crews discovered a 30 foot by 30 foot brush fire at a homeless camp along the creek along the rail path when they got to the scene.
According to the fire brigade, the encampment was completely destroyed by the fire, and all residents departed the area. The fire is thought to be suspicious.
The fire department, which arrived on the site with two fire engines and two brush trucks, reported that they “immediately extinguished the blaze, with Enterprise Way being shut down for a short length of time.”
Police as well as city bylaw officials were there.
A second fire was reported at another homeless camp along the 2300 block of Highway 97 about 30 minutes later.
When the fire fighters came, there were only a few individuals at the camp and a minor fire this time.
No one was hurt, and the fire was labelled unintentional.
“We would like to thank the public for notifying our dispatch centre in a timely manner,” said Kelowna Fire Department platoon captain Scott Clarke. Your assistance is valued.
Two early-morning flames at homeless camps are put out by the Kelowna Fire Department.
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