Fireworks spark hedge fire

Young people discharging fireworks is believed to be the cause of a fire in Kelowna Tuesday night.

The Kelowna Fire Department received multiple 911 calls around 10 p.m. about a cedar hedge on fire next to Moraine Park on Moraine Court in Rutland.

“The first arriving officer reported a large cedar hedge approximately 50 feet long, a 40 foot tall pine tree and two small boats on fire. Quick action by the crews prevented the fire from spreading to any structures associated with the property,” said platoon captain John Kelly.

Kelly said witnesses reported several youths were discharging fireworks in the park at the time of the fire.

“This is considered the cause,” he said. “The use of fireworks is strictly prohibited within the city of Kelowna.”

KFD responded with three engines and a command unit.

Several R.C.M.P. members also attended the scene.