As Canada Day approaches, the Regional District of Central Okanagan is providing tips to keep celebrations safe and enjoyable for everyone.
Stay informed and plan with safety in mind. Keep an eye on local news and weather updates, and any guidelines or advisories issued by Kelowna, West Kelowna or Lake Country RCMP. When celebrating, be mindful of your neighbours and community spaces. Avoid loud noises late at night in accordance with Noise Control | Bylaw No. 403.
Our Community Policing and Citizens on Patrol teams will be out in the community, ready to assist you and educate on crime prevention in your community. Catch them in the Peachland, West Kelowna and Lake Country Canada Day events. Additionally, our Speed Watch teams will be monitoring speeds throughout the region, so please watch your speed on your way to and from fun events.
If you have knowledge of criminal activity in your community, you can anonymously submit a tip to Central Okanagan Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or online. If you are witnessing a crime in progress, please contact 911 or call the non-emergency line in your area:
- Kelowna non-emergency line: 250-762-3300
- Lake Country non-emergency line: 250-766-2288
- West Kelowna non-emergency line: 250-768-2880
To prevent accidental fires and injuries, all fireworks are banned within the Central Okanagan unless specifically permitted by a local fire department (Bylaws 53 and 630). Fireworks can also induce panic in animals, so keep pets indoors and create a safe, quiet space for them. As in previous years, the Kelowna Fire Department has approved a fireworks permit for Canada Day celebrations hosted by Festivals Kelowna in Waterfront Park. There will also be fireworks at the Peachland Canada Day celebration and a drone show in West Kelowna at Westside Daze.
Human-caused ignition sources accounted for 30 percent of wildfires last year in B.C. Be responsible by properly disposing of cigarette butts and ensuring campfires are never left unattended. To report a wildfire, unattended campfire, or open burning violation, call 1-800-663-5555 toll-free or *5555 on a cellphone.
Sign up for emergency notifications right to your inbox from the Central Okanagan Regional Emergency Program to ensure you are prepared in case of an emergency. For more information on emergency preparedness, visit cordemergency.ca.
Let's make this Canada Day a celebration to remember, filled with fun, respect and safety. By following these tips, we can create a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone in our community.