Vernon hopes cigarette tossing message hits home: ‘We want to protect our community’

By Megan Turcato North Okanagan Reporter Global News

Drivers headed into Vernon, B.C. will see signs reminding them of the consequences of tossed cigarette butts. The City of Vernon is taking a proactive approach to wildfire prevention and installing digital signs around the community, reminding people not to discard their cigarettes carelessly. “We know that some of the fires around the province are…human-caused and we’ve had some complaints from our residents saying that [at] some of the lookouts we have around town, people have been stopping and having a smoke and tossing their butts on the ground. There [have been] some confrontations between residents and people who do that so we said, ‘Let’s try to be proactive,’” Mayor Akbal Mund said.“We want to protect our community. The loss of a home is a big deal for everybody and we’ve got to make sure we are doing what we can, as council, to protect our community.” The signs read, “Extreme fire hazard. Do not toss butts. $575 fine.” The city is placing six of these signs around the community. It is costing the city $6,600 a month to rent the digital sign boards. The mayor said he considers the cost “quite reasonable” considering the potential cost associated with a serious wildfire.
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https://www.castanet.net/news/BC/205612/Butt-flicker-unrepentant

Fire Evacuee Facilities Closed Down

Vernon, BC, Canada / 1075 KISS FM Pete McIntyre August 30, 2017 11:11 am

The City of Vernon has demobilized its Emergency Social Services reception centre at the Vernon Recreation Centre
The move was made at the request of Emergency Management BC. The group lodging facilities at the Vernon Curling Rink and the Civic Arena have also been decommissioned. The sites had been open since July 14, helping fire evacuees, with funding provided by the province. Any further evacuee registrations or service extensions can be provided by appointment by calling the Vernon ESS Program to make an appointment at 250-540-4153, Monday to Friday, 8:30 am to 4:30 pm. “The City of Vernon would like to express its deep appreciation of the volunteers and organizations that stepped forward to offer support when the community welcomed evacuees from areas affected by wildfires,” says a City news release.

Vernon expands wildfire awareness

RICHARD ROLKE Mon Aug 28th, 2017 10:18amNEWS Morning Star"

The ongoing wildfire risk is fuelling increased public awareness.Vernon council voted Monday to install six or seven mobile signs along major routes letting motorists know about the potential for fire.“We’re asking people to take care and not flick their butts,” said Will Pearce, chief administrative officer. A special meeting was held Monday after concerns came from residents about people stopping at lookouts along Eastside Road and disposing of cigarette butts. “It’s scary on Eastside Road. It’s extreme out there,” said Coun. Brian Quiring. Quiring called for no smoking on all civic property, but that didn’t garner any support, largely because of the challenges with enforcement. There are about 50 pullouts along Eastside, Tronson and Bella Vista roads, as well as Turtle Mountain and the Foothills.The mobile signs will cost about $7,000. “The signage will draw people’s attention that we are in a fire hazard area,” said Coun. Catherine Lord.

While she supported signs, Coun. Dalvir Nahal wanted to go a further step by installing cigarette receptacles at some lookouts. “If someone sees them, they are more likely to use them,” she said.However, Nahal’s plan was shot down by a majority of her colleagues. “They could attract people to use it (pullout) and they may use it for a trash can, which increases the fire hazard,” said Coun. Scott Anderson. “You would also need someone to come by and empty it.”Despite the lack of support, Nahal defended her call for ashtrays.“This is our city and we want to keep it safe and clean, and if it costs a bit, so be it,” she said.
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http://www.vernonmorningstar.com/news/ontario-truck-driver-fined-575-for-tossed-cigarette/
Ontario truck driver fined $575 for tossed cigarette An Ontario truck driver was fined $575 for tossing a lit cigarette out his window while driving Highway 1 through Malakwa.

Cranbrook RCMP issued a $575 ticket under the Wildfire Act Tuesday after a man threw a lit cigarette out of his moving vehicle.

Responding to a complaint of the man driving down 14th Avenue in Cranbrook, RCMP heard from the complainant that the man tossed a cigarette out of the vehicle window and into the dry grass nearby.

RCMP said witness managed to record the license plate for the out of province Cadillac. After locating the vehicle, RCMP issued a $575 ticket to the driver for "Drop Release or Mishandle Burning Substance" under the Wildfire Act.“Cranbrook RCMP would like to stress to the motoring public that with the dry conditions in and around Cranbrook, it might only take that one cigarette being tossed out a window to cause a devastating and life altering wildfire in our area," said Cst. Katie Forgeron.

- Bradley Jones / with files from Cranbrook RCMP

Carelessness with lit cigarette butt costs B.C. motorist $575
CBC News Posted: Jul 11, 2017 5:04 PM PT

An Abbotsford driver has learned the hard way it isn't wise to flick lit cigarette butts out the window at the height of wildfire season. The unidentified motorist received a fine Tuesday for $575 under the Wildfire Act after an officer witnessed the butt-tossing, according to Abbotsford police Sgt. Judy Bird. "We're all at risk for smouldering cigarettes causing bushfires," Bird said. First responders say those fires put the lives of the public and firefighters at risk. "We attend multiple structure fires and human-caused fire tragedies every year when people discard smoking materials in dry plant pots outside their dwelling, in landscape bark mulch and dry grass," Abbotsford Deputy Fire Chief Jeff Adams said in a news release. Abbotsford police are asking anyone who witnesses a butt being tossed from a car or dropped on the ground in an area where a fire could start to call (star) 5555 or 1-800-663-5555.
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Also see: http://vancouverisland.ctvnews.ca/driver-hit-with-575-fine-after-tossing-cigarette-butt-in-front-of-cop-1.3502012
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New Wildfire Act and Wildfire Regulation Fines

On April 1, 2016, increased fines for a variety of wildfire-related violation tickets came into force. British Columbia now has some of the highest wildfire-related violation ticket fines in Canada.

The B.C. government has taken a tougher stand on irresponsible behaviour that contributes to increased wildfire risks, in an effort to protect communities, natural resources and infrastructure from wildfire damage.
Wildfire Act violation ticket fines (effective April 1, 2016)
Section 2, Fail to report fire: $383
Section 3 (1), Drop, release or mishandle burning substance: $575
Section 3 (2), Fail to extinguish burning substance: $575
Section 5 (1), Light, fuel or use fire against regulations: $1,150
Section 5 (2) (a), Fail to extinguish fire: $575
Section 5 (2) (b), Fail to report fire: $575
more

Vernon prepares for wildfires

RICHARD ROLKE Morning Star Thu Aug 3rd, 2017 12:37pmNEWS
The risk of wildfires has Vernon ramping up resources. City council voted Thursday to place career and volunteer firefighters for specified shifts at the Predator Ridge and Okanagan Landing halls.
“We are trying to mitigate some of the high-risk fire behaviour,” said Mayor Akbal Mund, adding that having staff at the two halls will lead to a quicker response if a wildfire occurs. “We want to be proactive and get ready.”

For the next four to five weeks, there will be two full-time career firefighters and two volunteers at the two stations from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily. Full staffing levels will be maintained at the downtown fire hall so about $79,000 will be required for additional firefighters at the other two halls over 35 days. “This will dramatically increase the response time for an initial attack,” said Brent Bond, Vernon Professional Firefighters Association president. “We’d like to thank council for this decision and administration for its work with the association.”

The union recently called staffing and response times into question and urged the city to have unionized members at one of the stations outside of downtown.  But Mund insists council’s decision Thursday is only based on the current wildfire threat.“This doesn’t have anything to do with staffing on a regular basis at the Landing and Predator Ridge halls,” he said.
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https://www.vernon.ca/activities-events/news-events/news-archive/vfrs-staffs-all-fire-halls-while-region-extreme-risk

No fires allowed in parks

By Darren Handschuh - CASTANET Jul 21, 2017 / 12:06 pm

Vernon Fire Rescue Services is reminding people fires of any sort are not allowed in any area parks. VFRS issued a notice that campfires and fire appliances such as portable barbecues or camp stoves that use liquefied or solid fuel are prohibited in all City parks and open spaces due to the extreme risk of wildfire in the region. “Liquefied and solid fuels include, but are not limited to, seasoned wood, charcoal briquettes, propane or natural gas. The ban will remain in place until further notice,” said Tanya Laing Gahr, city spokesperson. “The maximum fine for a fire in a public place is $200. A summary conviction for any infraction in the park could result in a maximum fine of $10,000.” The ban does not extend to barbecues on private property, however, the public is reminded be cautious regarding the extreme conditions in the North Okanagan. “In extreme conditions, new fires will start easily, spread rapidly and challenge fire suppression efforts. Disposal of lit cigarettes should be done safely using closed containers. Do not park or drive on dry grass, as heat from a vehicle can potentially start a fire,” said Laing Gahr. “Ensure compost piles are not close to any dry materials that could ignite. Do not leave grass or tree cuttings on the ground that could be potential fuel for fires.”

Kamloops firefighters get 12.5% total wage increase in new five-year contract

By Kamloops This Week - December 15, 2016
Kamloops firefighters will get a 2.5 per cent wage increase each year until 2019 under a new contract ratified with the city. The five-year contract is retroactive to Jan. 1, 2015 and expires on Dec. 31, 2019 and gives firefighters a 12.5 per cent salary increase over the life of the deal. In a release, the city said the increases are based on wage boosts given in Lower Mainland communities, which historically have set rates of pay for firefighters across the province.The contract also includes more training opportunities for Kamloops Fire Rescue, and outlying fire services.Both the city and union praised the deal, with Mayor Peter Milobar saying it will “provide great value to our citizens.” Kris Krutop, president of the International Association of Firefighters Local 913, said the deal will improve service to the community. “We are excited that we now have increased opportunities for growth, particularly in our dispatch and training divisions,” he said.
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2015 Kamloops Sofi Report
Employee Remuneration and Expenses Elected Officials

Interim fire chief on duty in Vernon

Vernon posted Nov 21, 2016 at 3:00 PM— updated Nov 21, 2016 at 4:03 PM Morning Star

David Lind is Interim Chief
of Vernon Fire Rescue Services.

A new fire chief is coming on duty in Vernon. David Lind is Interim Chief of Vernon Fire Rescue Services (VFRS) beginning Wednesday Nov. 23. Lind brings 25 years of emergency management experience to his new role. His experience, education and proven skills include management, leadership, firefighting, rescue, fire protection, emergency medical services, community emergency programs, emergency medical services and hazardous materials response. Prior to joining VFRS, Lind was an emergency services advisor for the Methenex Corporation, the deputy fire chief of operations in Medicine Hat, Alta., and the deputy director of fire and emergency services in Cranbrook, B.C. “This an exciting opportunity,” said Lind. “VFRS has a reputation for providing excellent service to the community and I’m coming into the service at a time when I’ll be able to help shape plans that will build on this success well into the future.” Lind’s philosophies for emergency management include ensuring that crews are provided with the resources for mental readiness as well as physical readiness, particularly when responding to critical incidents. “Our people are our biggest resource and biggest asset,” said Lind. “Mental readiness ensures we are as strong as we can be.” Lind will assume the role as one of the two deputy chiefs once Chief Keith Green returns to his duties with VFRS. A shift in administration at VFRS was uncovered last week, which included Lawrie Skolrood stepping down as deputy chief.

Administrative structure in transition at Vernon fire hall

by Richard Rolke - Vernon Morning Star Vernon posted Nov 18, 2016 at 2:00 PM— updated Nov 18, 2016 at 4:03 PM
There are significant changes happening behind the scenes at the Vernon fire hall. As of Wednesday, David Lind, a former deputy fire chief in Cranbrook and Medicine Hat, will take on duties as interim chief as fire chief Keith Green has been on leave since the end of September. On top of this, long-time deputy fire chief Lawrie Skolrood has left his position. “It will take a little while to settle down the management team,” said Will Pearce, the city’s chief administrative officer. It’s not known when Green will return, but once he does, Lind will shift to become a deputy fire chief, joining existing deputy Jack Blair. Skolrood had been with the fire department for about 18 years. “He’s moving on with his career. It was wholly Lawrie’s decision,” said Pearce. These changes occur at the same time as administration assistants are shifting at the fire hall, and the deputy emergency manager moving in the new year for personal reasons. Pearce insists residents should not be concerned about operations at the fire hall. “Our firefighters on the floor are professional and well trained,” he said. “We have a solid, first class fire department. The day-to-day fire service and the safety of the community have not changed.” That is a message reinforced by the Vernon Professional Firefighters Association. “There is no service interruption and residents will be provided with the same quality service they always receive,” said Brent Bond, union president. Neither Green or Skolrood could be reached for comment.
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Also see http://www.castanet.net/news/Vernon/181326/Changes-at-fire-hall
and http://www.1075kiss.com/top-news-stories/2016/11/18/chief-and-deputy-chief-changes-at-fire-rescue

Museum fire probed

Kate Bouey - CASTANET Sep 9, 2016 / 12:19 pm |
An early morning fire behind the Greater Vernon Museum and Archives has been labelled as suspicious, confirms fire investigator Lawrie Skolrood.The RCMP are now involved in the case, said Skolrood.Officers were at the scene Friday morning, guarding the evidence while the investigation continued. Meanwhile, museum officials have expressed relief that no items were damaged by the blaze which raged just behind the building. "Nothing inside has been affected at all, really, so that's really lucky,” said archivist Barb Bell, who had rushed down to the scene in the dark after word of the fire to inspect the damage. "It's all related to history, Vernon's history, so it is irreplaceable." "We're just really lucky that the valuable contents of the museum and the collections of the community are safe," said Tracy Satin, executive director. The cause of a fire in roofing materials behind the Greater Vernon Museum and Archives is under investigation. Vernon Fire Rescue responded to a report of a fire around 2:30 a.m. Friday, said deputy fire chief Jack Blair. “While they were sizing up the area, they found flames behind the building,” said Blair. “It appeared to be in a porta potty and roofing materials.” The museum is currently being re-roofed. Firefighters wore full protective gear, including breathing apparatus, because there was thick, black smoke caused by burning plastics, Blair said. “It is under investigation,” said Blair. “An investigator will be there this morning to look into the cause.”
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Military Bomb Found At Fire Site Posted on 8/29/2016 11:12 AM by Pete McIntyre 107.5 KISSFM

Posted on 8/29/2016 11:12 AM by Pete McIntyre 107.5 KISSFM

Mop up duties on the wildfire site near Predator Ridge had to be suspended Sunday after an unexploded ordnance was found in the area. Vernon Fire Rescue Chief Keith Green says the proper precautions were taken. "One of the (Wildfire Service fire fighters) stumbled across it while we were mopping up, and we were spread out all over the place. So, once we had a look at what was found, we pulled everyone back to staging and called the RCMP." A crew from the Department of National Defense is on the way to the area to collect and dispose of the ordnance. Green says it was likely left over from military training held in the Vernon area dating back to World War 2. "In talking with the land owner's family, they said that is the furthest one towards Predator they have ever heard of, but we know this area was used as a training ground and many have been found on the Commonage side and the lake side, along with in Kal Park and some near Goose Lake." If an ordnance is discovered, people are advised to leave the area immediately and call 9-1-1 to report it. The fire, which charred about ten hectares near Kokanee Road and north of Predator Ridge Saturday, was caused by a downed power line, caused by the strong wind that day. Fourty-five homes in Sunset Properties were put on evacuation alert Saturday, which was rescinded Sunday once the fire was officially under control. Green says crews are still monitoring for any hot spots at the fire scene.

Fire hall agreements inked

by Roger Knox - Vernon Morning Star posted Aug 28, 2016 at 5:00 AM
The City of Armstrong has unanimously approved in principle the draft of the new five-year mutual aid agreement for fire department emergency resources. The current deal between the city, Spallumcheen, Vernon Enderby, Coldstream and the Regional District of North Okanagan (which consists of BX-Swan Lake, Lumby and Silver Star) expired on March 3, but the partners agreed to extend it to the end of the year. “The agreement allows the communities to request and provide fire department emergency resources to the communities in the event an emergency exceeds the resources of an individual community’s fire department,” said Armstrong Mayor Chris Pieper, who is the city’s representative on the Armstrong Spallumcheen Fire Service Commission. The commission had recommended that the city and the township support the draft in principle. The five-year agreement would take effect Jan. 1.

Penticton signs new contract with firefighters

by Staff Writer - Penticton Western News posted Jul 6, 2016 at 8:00 AM
Both the City of Penticton and the International Association of Fire Firefighters Local 1399 say the successful negotiation of a collective agreement signals a new, positive relationship between both parties. “Penticton Fire Fighters are pleased with the change of relationship we have with new city and fire department management. The result of that relationship is a collective agreement that reflects a new direction for our fire department operations making effective and efficient response a priority. Our members can now put the past behind us and focus on the future,” said Mike Richards, fire inspector and union representative. In 2015, firefighters and the city had to go to binding arbitration after contract negotiations lagged on for five years. Mayor Andrew Jakubeit said the current negotiations were positive and productive, recognizing Fire Chief Larry Watkinson’s past experience. “We really appreciated Fire Chief Watkinson’s leadership with the negotiations to find cost savings without compromising service standards. This is positive news for the city and we are happy with the outcome,” said Jakubeit. The agreement will see the city’s firefighters receive a wage increase of 2.5 per cent per year and was reached after only three days of discussions and without mediation or arbitration. It is considered a success by all parties involved. “I think both parties came to the table willing to find solutions which speaks to an improved respect among parties. Council felt the deal was fair, realistic, and helped to mend animosities that had existed in the past,” said Jakubeit. The arbitrated agreement covered the period from Jan. 1, 2010 to Dec. 31, 2015. The new agreement is effective from Jan. 1, 2016 through to the end of 2019.

Halls Manned To Reduce Fire Risk

Posted on 5/9/2016 6:53 PM by Pete McIntyre 107.5 KISSFM
Vernon firefighters will be stationed at fire halls in Okanagan Landing and Predator Ridge -- when needed -- this summer.Mayor Akbal Mund says council has given fire chief Keith Green the authority to use his resources where they are most needed, to reduce response times, and prevent what happened in Fort McMurray."You want to be prepared as much as possible, and what this does, and what he is asking for is, if he can have five people there instead of all five at the number one hall, it could make a difference in a fire getting out of hand," Mund told Kiss FM. The chief will be able to deploy two fire fighters at either station. "Predator Ridge is doing a concert with Tom Cochrane for their 25th anniversary, and it makes sense to have two fire fighters up there," adds Mund. Mund says the new policy will have no extra cost for the taxpayers. "I think that's very important." Mund says it will just be used for certain events and during high risk periods. "You can use it for training purposes as well. it just makes sense."
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Preparing for the worst
Kate Bouey - CASTANET May 9, 2016 / 4:46 pm 

Vernon fire chief Keith Green is getting ready for a long, hot summer. City council has given Green the go ahead to deploy his crews to other fire halls, including Okanagan Landing and Predator Ridge, “to most effectively minimize risk and maximize service levels.” The two halls have volunteer crews which supplement Vernon Fire Rescue Services in the event of a fire in those areas. Mayor Akbal Mund said Green “asked if he could deploy his resources to a different fire hall in light of what's happened in Fort McMurray.” “He showed he could decrease response times in certain areas of Vernon by deploying two members out at Okanagan Landing or, for example, two members at Predator Ridge for special events or high risk (times).” “There is no cost to the taxpayer for doing this,” said Mund, adding the crew members would not always be at those locations. He also pointed to a wildfire in Lake Country that broke out on Saturday and the destruction of parts of Fort McMurray. “When you see a community like Fort Mac just devastated, you want to be prepared as much as possible,” said Mund. “What this does and what he's asking for is 'if I could have two people there instead of all five at number one hall, it could make a difference' (during fire season).”

From horses and bells to state of the art; Vernon Fire Department has come a long way in 125 years

By (CHARLOTTE HELSTON /InfoTel Multimedia) April 01, 2016 - 9:00 PM

VERNON - Things have come a long way at the Vernon Fire Department since it got its start 125 years ago with a horse drawn fire engine. The department, which began in 1891, is actually older than the City of Vernon itself, which was incorporated the year after. It’s landmark birthday the fire department is celebrating with bells on — literally. Members of the fire hall, with help from the community, are restoring a large, 850 pound bell from the original fire hall, which stood roughly where the Marten Brewpub is now on Main Street. Vernon Fire Chief Keith Green says the bell, which has a diameter of 42 inches, was purchased in 1894 for $176. “The old pull boxes, in effect until the 70s, would send a signal to the fire hall and interrupt the circuit to the bell, and it would ring,” Green says, adding the old bell hasn’t rung in probably 50 years. The bell’s gudgeons, leg stands and clapper (the device that rings the bell) are all long gone, and those involved in what Green has dubbed ‘The Bell Restoration Project’ have worked diligently to recreate the missing pieces. The new parts will even be dipped in acid to create a weathered look to match the bell. The department plans to unveil the restored bell at an open house in May, which the whole community is going to be invited to. Reflecting on the fire hall’s 125 years of service to the community, Green says a lot has changed. Old photos from the Vernon Museum and Archives prove as much.“You can see the guys are in dress shoes, ties and suspenders,” Green says of the department’s first firefighters. Now, firefighters wear a full suit of armour complete with a breathing apparatus. Transportation has also changed dramatically. The first fire engine was a horse-drawn wagon, Green says. As rumour has it, the horses were kept in a field across from the station, and when they heard the bell ring, they would run over and assume their positions in front of the wagons. When the department got its first fire engine in 1913, the horses retired. “As the story goes they were sold to the milkman and he had to get rid of them because every time the bell rang they ran down to the fire station with the milk cart. They were so well trained he couldn’t stop them,” Green says. In 1934, the fire hall got a shiny new truck from Watkin Motors in Vernon. The antique was fully restored by members of the fire department in 2002 and is brought out for parades and special events. As the community grew, so did the fire department, Green says. From an original crew of just a handful of firemen, the department now staffs three chief officers, four captains, 24 firefighters, four dispatchers, one emergency coordinator, one captain of fire prevention, and a mechanic — plus 35 to 40 paid on call firefighters. While helping the public remains its mission, the fire department does more than just fight fires these days. It responds to numerous medical emergencies, traffic accidents, HAZMAT calls and rescues. A big focus is on prevention, with the department running smoke alarm and car seat programs, in addition to other safety initiatives and fundraisers. The 125 anniversary open house is set for Saturday, May 7, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Station 1, located at 3401 30 St. There will be burgers and hot dogs, as well as antique fire engines and equipment on display.

Grass Fire Burning Near Vernon Landfill

Grass fire forces quick response
by Richard Rolke - Vernon Morning Star posted Jul 23, 2015 at 6:00 PM

Firefighters from across jurisdictions wasted no time tackling a grass fire late Thursday afternoon. Vernon, Coldstream and B.C. Wildfire crews converged on a tinder-dry hillside southwest of the Greater Vernon landfill, not far from Commonage Road. "We've got it knocked down. The guys hit it really hard," said Jack Blair, Vernon deputy fire chief. With a home in close proximity, the goal was to bring the fire under control but Mother Nature created some challenges. "The wind was swirling around pretty quick," said Blair. Tenders kept bringing water to the site and firefighters scoured the hillside looking for hot spots, including around power poles. Puffs of smoke billowing up from the ground dotted the landscape. Blair admits that it would take little for the fire to flare again. "We will be here for a long time to keep an eye on things," he said. It's not known what caused the fire but the area isn't easily accessible to people. A fire in the same area a few years ago was caused by a bird hitting a power line and causing a spark.

Posted on 7/23/2015 by KISS News Staff 107.5 KISSFM

Vernon Firefighters have been called to a grass fire burning near the landfill on Birnie Road. It's believed the fire is about one hectare in size. Fire crews are attempting to stop it moving toward some trees next to the dump. Smoke can be seen in the vicinity of Highway 97 and Commonage Road.
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Grass fire burning near Vernon landfill
July 23, 2015 - 5:49 PM By Charlotte Helston INFO-TEL Multimedia
VERNON - Emergency crews are descending upon a new grass fire in Vernon. The fire was reported just before 5 p.m. today, July 23 on Birnie Road, near the landfill, and is an estimated two hectares in size. The Vernon Fire Department is at the scene and has requested back up from B.C. Wildfire. Fire information officer Kelsey Winter says a water tender, a response officer and a helicopter to bucket the fire are on their way to the blaze. We do not yet know how aggressively the fire is burning or how it started.

Toss a butt out the window in Vernon and you could receive a fine

July 15, 2015 - 8:00 PM By Charlotte Helston INFO-TEL Multimedia
VERNON - Watch your butts, smokers. If you’re caught throwing a cigarette butt out the window, Vernon RCMP say you could face fines. It starts with $81 for depositing litter or an injurious item, and could go up another $173 for violating the Wildfire Act, RCMP spokesperson Gord Molendyk says. “Especially when things are so hot right now, and the fire danger is so high, our officers could be writing tickets,” Molendyk says. If you see someone dropping a butt out a window, Molendyk says to write down the license plate number and description of the vehicle, and if possible, take a photo (as long as you aren’t driving.) He says you must also be prepared to testify if the case ever goes to court. People who discard butts that lead to fires can also be on the hook for related damages and firefighting costs, Molendyk adds. “Use common sense. Do not throw your cigarette butts out the window,” Molendyk says. “It’s not a good time to do it ever, but especially at this time of year when things are tinder dry, use your ashtray.” Kamloops RCMP are cracking down on smokers with the bad habit of discarding butts out the window, and have already issued four tickets. Meanwhile, the province is looking at ways to deter such offences, such as possibly impounding vehicles for people who throw their butts out car windows.

Major blaze in Vernon

by Darren Handschuh CASTANET- Jun 30, 2015 / 7:37 pm

A massive fire gutted a building in the north end of Vernon Tuesday evening, sending thick, black smoke over the city. The fire in the 2600 block of 48th Avenue broke out about 6:30 p.m. and quickly spread to the entire one-storey building, which housed government offices and some private businesses. A witness at the scene said he saw light, white smoke coming from the back of the building, which rapidly turned into open flame before Vernon Fire Rescue arrived. Several heavy pieces of equipment were called to the scene, including the department's ladder truck, which attacked the flames from above. The fire quickly consumed the building, blowing out windows and sending flames high into they sky. Several small explosions could also be heard as the fire spread. The heat was so intense it could be felt almost a block away, and the front of the building collapsed in a heap of flame, embers and smoke. Police ordered a growing crowd of onlookers back, saying there were propane bottles in the building. The cause of the fire is not yet known, but unconfirmed reports say there was roofing work being done on the building earlier in the day. The building is located between a Petro Canada gas station and Vernon's ICBC office, across the street from the Village Green Hotel. There is no information yet of any injuries. (more Photos)

City, firefighters sign new deal

by Richard Rolke - Vernon Morning Star posted Jun 24, 2015 at 1:00 AM
The City of Vernon and its unionized firefighters are trying to find middle ground. Council has inked a contract with the International Association of Firefighters for 2013 to 2015. Both sides have not had a deal since 2012. “It’s a new collective agreement and we’re happy with the terms,” said Brent Bond, IAFF local 1517 president. The pact includes a 2.5 per cent salary increase for each year, effective Jan. 1, 2013. Will Pearce, the city’s chief administrative officer. is pleased with the process. “It clears the deck and gets everyone paid for what they earned,” he said. “We can then sit down and talk about where we go for 2016, 2017 and 2018. It’s a practical way to do business.” A challenge has been that a 2.5 per cent compensation increase is standard across B.C., with most fire departments having wage parity with their Vancouver counterparts. “A number of Lower Mainland contracts are for seven years or longer and the cumulative impact of 2.5 per cent is significant,” said Pearce. Complicating matters further is that council’s strategic plan calls for the city’s overall operating budget to fall within each year’s consumer price index (it is presently 0.9 per cent). “You could have a big gap between anticipated budgets and true costs,” said Pearce. Between 2013 and 2015, the city has banked funds in anticipation of a contract agreement. “We are current with our financial obligations to our firefighters.” Bond is looking forward to the union entering into the next round of negotiations with the city. “They can get prepared for the next few years,” he said.

City of Vernon inks deal with firefighters

by Staff Writer - Vernon Morning Star posted Jun 23, 2015 at 10:00 AM
The City of Vernon has reached a new contract with the International Association of Firefighters from Jan. 1, 2013, to Dec. 31, 2015. The new collective agreement extends the terms of the previous agreement, which expired Dec. 31, 2012, with the exception of a small number of negotiated clauses as well as a revised pay schedule. The agreement makes provision for a 2.5 per cent salary increase for each year, effective Jan. 1, 2013. “The Vernon Professional Firefighters Association is happy with the new agreement that provides a fair wage for the membership,” said Brent Bond, union president.“We are pleased we could come to a negotiated settlement.” “We were encouraged by both parties working hard to reach an MOA to the end of 2015,” added Mayor Akbal Mund.
Negotiations will recommence early fall for the period beyond Jan. 1, 2016.

Another grass fire in Vernon’s Becker Park; this one is suspicious

June 21, 2015 - 9:20 AM Howard Alexander INFO-TEL Multimedia
VERNON – Vernon fire crews put out another grass fire in a park right in the middle of city. Firefighters were called to a third blaze in just over a week in Becker Park at about 6:36 a.m., Saturday, June 20. The cause of this one has been deemed suspicious in nature. Capt. Brent Bond says crews quickly doused the 20 ft by 60 ft grass fire in the park just behind the Vernon Rec Centre before it had a chance to grow. Bond says the fire was nowhere near the fire a few days ago, which was just off the trail through the park. Investigators suspect both the June 11 and June 12 grass fires were caused by a discarded cigarette. He says the RCMP are investigating the cause of Saturday’s fire and collected evidence from the scene.