By Sgt. Ed DeJong

This past week, July 15 to July 22, Columbia Valley RCMP saw a significant increase in call volume, responding to 145 calls for service. The following is a summary of some of the files our officers responded to.

Multiple people bear sprayed in downtown Invermere July 20

In the early hours of July 20, Columbia Valley RCMP responded to multiple calls of people being bear sprayed in downtown Invermere by an individual.  The events took place after the Bull Busting event and occurred between the arena and Ullr Bar.  If anyone has information regarding these events, please contact Cst McMillan at 250-342-9292.

Four fires started by human activity July 22

On July 22 police responded with BC Wildfire and local fire departments to four fires.

The first three were along Westside Road and were quickly extinguished by the Fairmont Hot Springs Fire Department and BC Wildfire Service.

The fourth fire was along Highway 93/95 between Fairmont Hot Springs and Windermere and necessitated the evacuation order of approximately 50 properties and an evacuation alert for ?akisqnuk along with a number of homes along Kootenay #3 Road.

BC Wildfire attacked the fire aggressively and was able to knock it down and have it contained prior to the loss of any structures.  All fires were started by human activity, which is a reminder to be vigilant.

Along with the obvious, don’t throw a cigarette out the window; also be cognizant of any chains or straps bouncing off your vehicle/trailer that may cause a spark. Don’t stop and keep your vehicle running in an area where the grass is dry as your exhaust system can spark a fire.  If you observe a fire, report it to 1-800-663-5555 or *5555 on your cell phone.

– Sgt. Ed DeJong is Columbia Valley RCMP Detachment commander

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