People in Naramata and surrounding areas may see smoke this morning from a small training burn occurring about five kilometres southeast of Naramata, along the Arawana Forest Service Road.

The BC Wildfire Service is conducting this controlled burn as part of a basic wildland fire suppression and safety course. The size of the fire is not expected to exceed 10 metres by 10 metres. Two initial attack crews will be on site to control the fire’s spread and ensure that the fire is properly extinguished.

Fifteen emergency firefighters are participating in this course, which is run annually. These individuals may have the opportunity to work under the supervision of a fire warden this fire season.

Within the Kamloops Fire Centre, fire wardens perform a multitude of essential tasks. In addition to helping ensure that the public is adhering to fire prohibitions, fire wardens may also help local fire zones monitor low-intensity fires overnight, aid in suppression efforts and support initial attack response. This test burn will allow participants to practise their skills in a controlled environment.

This low-intensity fire also will be studied to assess potential fire behaviour within a specific fuel type. This information helps the BC Wildfire Service determine the fire risk in a given area. Currently, the fire danger rating in the Penticton Fire Zone is “very low” to “low”.

To report a wildfire, unattended campfire or open burning violation, call *5555 on your cellphone or call 1 800 663-5555 toll-free.

For the latest information on current wildfire activity, burning restrictions, road closures and air quality advisories, visit: www.bcwildfire.ca

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