A large hedge fire in Kelowna, B.C., on Tuesday has prompted fire officials to encourage residents to consider removing or replacing their cedar trees. The fire, which destroyed a neighboring garage and vehicle, as well as caused damage to two boats and nearby homes, started in a backyard where the homeowners were FireSmarting their home at the time. Unfortunately, the fire was caused by a frayed electrical line that failed while the homeowners were trimming their cedar hedges. Cedar trees are known to be highly flammable, as they do not drop their debris and create a dense, flammable environment when ignited.
The fire department is renewing its calls for homeowners to remove cedar trees and take advantage of the FireSmart Community Chipping Program, a month-long free curbside chipping and removal program for residents. The program aims to reduce the risk of fires spreading between homes, as was seen in the Okanagan fires last year. The fire chief emphasized the importance of replacing cedar hedges with non-combustible FireSmart plants to create a safer environment for residents. More information on the program can be found on the City of Kelowna’s website.
Kelowna deputy fire chief Larry Watkinson highlighted the dangers posed by dried-out cedar hedges in the city, noting that they are not suitable for the local climate. He described the flames during the fire as reaching 20-30 feet in the air, emphasizing the rapid and intense nature of cedar tree fires. The fire started due to an electrical cable failure while the homeowners were trying to reduce the fire risk by trimming their hedges, underscoring the need for caution when dealing with highly flammable vegetation.
The homeowners of a neighboring property affected by the fire recounted the fast-moving and intensely hot flames, emphasizing the importance of being prepared and vigilant in fire-prone areas. The fire department’s recommendation to remove cedar trees and participate in the FireSmart Community Chipping Program aligns with efforts to mitigate fire risks and protect homes in the region. By replacing flammable cedar hedges with FireSmart plants, residents can contribute to creating a safer and more fire-resistant environment for themselves and their neighbors.
The fire in Kelowna serves as a reminder of the potential hazards posed by dried-out cedar hedges and the importance of proactive measures to reduce the risk of wildfires. The destructive nature of the fire, which resulted in property damage and destruction, underscores the need for homeowners to prioritize fire safety and take steps to protect their properties. By heeding the advice of fire officials and participating in programs like the FireSmart Community Chipping Program, residents can play a role in safeguarding their communities against the threat of fires caused by flammable vegetation.
In conclusion, the recent hedge fire in Kelowna highlights the urgency of addressing the risks associated with cedar trees and other highly-flammable vegetation in fire-prone areas. By promoting the removal of cedar hedges and the use of FireSmart plants, the fire department aims to enhance the safety and resilience of the community against wildfires. Residents are encouraged to take proactive steps in managing vegetation around their properties and participating in programs that support fire prevention efforts. Through collective action and awareness, communities can work towards creating a more fire-resistant environment and reducing the potential impact of wildfires on homes and infrastructure.
