Crews stop grass fire from reaching homes

Fire crews in West Kelowna had to work quickly — and under sweltering conditions — to snuff out a fire that was moving towards homes.

The department was called at 11:39 a.m. Friday to reports of a rapidly spreading grass fire in the area behind Wal Mart in West Kelowna

Fire chief Jason Brolund said the first arriving firefighters found a fire was burning in dry grass and trees uphill towards homes.

“Their primary objective was to stop the fire before it reached the residences. Firefighters were successful in halting the advance of the fire. No homes were damaged and no injuries resulted,” Brolund said.

Brolund said 16 personnel and five fire trucks attended the scene.

“Firefighters worked hard under very demanding, hot weather conditions. The fire is now out and mop up and fire guards are being constructed.”

Fire site in West Kelowna (Submitted photo/WKFR)

The fire chief said the cause is suspicious and likely human caused, with the RCMP investigating.

“With the onset of extremely hot weather our fire danger rating is increasing. We urge the public to remain vigilant and report any unexpected fire or smoke sighted,” Brolund advised.