A wildfire sparked in Kalamalka Lake Provincial Park didn't stand up to firefighters Monday evening.
Coldstream crews were quick to extinguish the blaze, near the red gate off Kidston Road June 16, shortly before 6:30 p.m.
"The call came is as reported smoke in the park, the call came from across the lake (Kalamalka) from people who saw it," said Coldstream Fire Chief Fiona Morgentaler-Code.
Coldstream firefighters, 14 in total, were joined by five crew members from the Lavington Volunteer Fire Department, and five from the BC Wildfire Service (BCWS) at the red gate, and all on the scene had "quite a hike" to the fire, said Morgentaler-Code. The blaze was about 20 feet by 20 feet with flames rising three feet into the air.
Crews stayed at the fire until about 9:30 p.m., and the BCWS returned to the scene Tuesday morning.
"They found one tiny hot spot, and ensured it was really put out," said Morgentaler-Code. "The fire was officially declared as out at 9:30 a.m. Tuesday."
Because the call came from a concerned member of the public, crews were able to get to the scene as fast as possible. It serves as a reminder that no matter how big or small the smoke may be, a phone call to fire crews is always appreciated.
"It was such a quick response, and it was because of the public that we were able to jump on it so quick," said Morgentaler-Code. "We are always glad to work collaboratively with Lavington and BC Wildfire."
BC Wildfire Service has the fire listed as suspected human caused. BCWS and the RCMP are investigating.
