A report of shots fire on the Westside drew a large police presence early Monday, June 7. But it turned out to be fireworks.
RCMP received the report at approximately 4 a.m. that several shots were fired in the 12000 block of Westside Road.
“Frontline officers from the North Okanagan RCMP attended and confirmed the noise was a result of fireworks being set off by individuals at the location,” media relations Const. Chris Terleski said.
It’s in the same area a police standoff took place approximately three weeks ago.
A weapons-related incident saw a large police presence for several hours May 18 before one person was arrested approximately 10 kilometres down Westside Road (from the Vernon end).
READ MORE: One in custody following Westside firearm standoff
In the Central Okanagan fireworks are prohibited to be set off or sold unless authorized by the local fire department.
Penalties of $100 or more (depending on the violation) can be issued by bylaw officers, if they are alerted to the incident.
There is currently a high fire danger rating across the North and Central Okanagan, with Westside having recently lost several structures to a blaze Friday, June 4.
Along with the risk of fireworks sparking a fire, they can cause serious injuries and explosions.
“The biggest reminder that I want to give residents is the safety hazard that fireworks pose,” Central Okanagan Regional District fire services manager Ross Kotscherofski said.
READ MORE: Fire under control after claiming several homes off Westside Road near Vernon
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