WILDFIRES – Heavy smoke causes City to adjust municipal operations

Regional wildfire smoke is causing municipal operations to be adjusted accordingly, says City Hall.

“Conditions can change quickly as wildfire smoke moves through the region,” said Dušan Magdolen, the City’s cultural services and events manager.

“We encourage residents to stay informed through trusted sources, follow the advice of health authorities, and check the City’s communication channels for updates on municipal programs and services.”

He released the following details:

Impacts on Outdoor Events and Programs  

Decisions regarding City-run outdoor programming are being made on a case-by-case basis based on current conditions:

• Music in the Park: Organizers will assess conditions each day, with a decision communicated by about 4 p.m. Last-minute cancellations may occur if conditions worsen. Updates will be posted at Kamloops.ca/MusicInThePark and through the City’s social media channels.
• Riverside Park Watch Parties: Decisions will be made approximately two hours before each scheduled start time. Visit the Riverside Park Watch Parties website or social media channels for updates.
• Outdoor Community Events, Sports, and Tournaments: Organizers of outdoor events are encouraged to monitor conditions and make decisions based on participant safety. Attendees should check directly with event organizers for the latest information.
• Brock Outdoor Pool: Pool staff will check air quality before the pool opens each day and again at 11:00 am. If the Air Quality Health Index is 10 or higher before opening, the pool will remain closed for the morning. If the index reaches 10 or higher at the 11 a.m. check, the pool will close for the rest of the afternoon. Visit the Kamloops.ca/brockpool or social media channels for updates.

City Operations

City staff are following established safe work procedures for wildfire smoke exposure. Outdoor work activities may be modified as conditions change and in accordance with provincial occupational health and safety guidance. Staff will use appropriate protective equipment, including respirators, when required.

Contractors working on City projects are responsible for following their own occupational health and safety plans.

Health Information and Air Quality Updates 

City facilities are not equipped with the specialized air filtration systems required to operate as clean air shelters.

“We encourage residents to protect their health and refer to trusted provincial and federal resources,” including:

• Government of Canada Air Quality Index
• BC Air Quality Health Index
• BC Air Quality Warnings
• BlueSky Canada smoke forecasting system

Residents can also visit Kamloops.ca and follow the City’s social media channels for updates on municipal programs, services, and event impacts as conditions change.