A large hedge fire in Kelowna, B.C. has prompted fire officials to encourage residents to consider removing or replacing their cedar trees. The fire, which destroyed a neighbouring garage, vehicles, boats, and nearby homes, was fueled by the highly flammable nature of cedar trees. The fire started in a backyard where homeowners were working on FireSmart principles to reduce fire risk, but a frayed electrical component caused the fire. The flames were intense and fast-moving due to the dense debris inside the cedar hedge, creating a dangerous environment for fire to spread rapidly. As a result, the fire department is urging homeowners to remove cedar trees and take advantage of the FireSmart Community Chipping Program.
Kelowna’s deputy fire chief Larry Watkinson emphasized the flammability of cedar trees, noting that they do not drop their debris, leading to a build-up of highly flammable material within the hedge. This accumulation can create a volatile environment that burns rapidly when ignited. Watkinson highlighted that the fire risk posed by cedar hedges was evident during fires in the Okanagan Valley last year, where cedar hedges were identified as a significant factor in the ignition of structures. To mitigate these risks, the fire department is calling on residents to remove cedar hedges and replace them with non-combustible FireSmart plants to reduce the threat of fire spreading between residences.
The fire on Barkley Road in Kelowna’s Lower Mission area was sparked by a frayed electrical component while homeowners were working on FireSmart principles to mitigate fire risks. The incident serves as a reminder of the potential dangers posed by cedar hedges, especially in areas prone to wildfires. Fire officials urge residents to participate in the FireSmart Community Chipping Program, a month-long initiative that provides free curbside chipping and removal for residents who register. By taking proactive steps to remove cedar hedges and replace them with FireSmart plants, homeowners can help reduce the risk of fire spreading between properties and structures in the community.
The intensity of the flames from the cedar hedge fire in Kelowna was described as reaching heights of 20-30 feet, causing significant damage to properties in the area. Despite the efforts of the homeowners to adhere to FireSmart principles, the fire quickly escalated due to the flammable nature of cedar trees. Watkinson emphasized the importance of proactive measures to prevent similar incidents in the future, urging residents to prioritize the removal of cedar hedges and participation in the FireSmart Community Chipping Program. By replacing cedar trees with non-combustible alternatives, homeowners can contribute to creating a safer environment and reducing the risk of fire spreading through the community.
The incident in Kelowna serves as a stark reminder of the importance of fire safety measures, particularly in areas where cedar trees are prevalent. The destructive potential of fires fueled by cedar hedges underscores the need for homeowners to assess the fire risk on their properties and take appropriate steps to mitigate potential dangers. By heeding the advice of fire officials and participating in programs like the FireSmart Community Chipping Program, residents can play a crucial role in creating a safer and more resilient community. This proactive approach to fire prevention can help safeguard homes, properties, and lives from the devastating impact of wildfires, ensuring a more secure future for residents in fire-prone areas like Kelowna.
