Middleground needed on fires

Vernon council’s actions Monday may bring a raging debate over backyard campfires under control.

Despite a staff recommendation to amend a bylaw so campfires are illegal except for in private and provincial campgrounds, the politicians delayed the matter so the issue can be reconsidered further.

There is no question that residential campfires pose a fire risk and help contribute to poor air quality, so the fire department was right to consider ways of dealing with those issues.

However, it was increasingly obvious that a blanket ban was not only unrealistic but unpopular with many residents.

Many people living on large acreages, especially along Okanagan Lake, have enjoyed backyard campfires for decades. And given the size of their lots and the rural nature of the Landing, such an activity should continue as long as property owners follow all safety precautions.

But the real concern appears to be in the more urbanized parts of the community, such as East Hill and South Vernon. Lots are smaller and homes are much closer together, especially where multi-family units exist.

If a fire were to spread under those circumstances, the impact could be devastating.

And in terms of air quality, smoke is more likely to hang over neighbourhoods right in town, whereas wind off Okanagan Lake largely deals with the situation in the Landing.

Ultimately, residents of all parts of Vernon — whether urban or rural — can’t ignore the fact that fire can pose a safety risk, while negatively impacting people with asthma.

But the rural/urban divide may be a good compromise so the tradition can continue in some cases.

Source Vernon Morning Star November 28, 2007

Source Vernon Morning Star - November 28, 2007