Merritt Firefighters Respond to Interface Wildfire on Lookout Access Road
MERRITT, B.C. | JULY 25, 2025
Late last night, the Merritt Fire Rescue Department responded to a human-caused interface wildfire on the west side of the City, along Lookout Access Road off Juniper Drive in Merritt. The fire, though small at approximately 0.5 hectares, was highly visible and burned not far from homes, prompting a swift and coordinated multi-agency response.
Dispatched at 11:35 p.m. on July 24, 2025, nineteen firefighters from Merritt Fire Rescue responded to the incident, supported by BC Wildfire Service Initial Attack Crews. Crews acted quickly to contain the fire. The scene was declared under control and cleared by 1:00 a.m. on July 25, 2025.
Upon arrival, crews discovered a fire consisting of burning pallets, which had ignited surrounding grass and brush. The fire has been confirmed as human-caused, and the RCMP is currently investigating the circumstances. Anyone with information is asked to contact the RCMP.
“This fire on the west side of the city had the potential to spread rapidly, and we’re fortunate it was reported quickly and brought under control before it escalated,” said Fire Chief David Tomkinson. “The presence of burning pallets is deeply concerning.”
The public is reminded that wildfire risk remains high throughout the region. Unauthorized burning is strictly prohibited within the City of Merritt, and all suspicious fire activity should be reported immediately.
*At present, there is a Category 2 and 3 Open Fire Ban in the Kamloops Fire Centre, which includes the City of Merritt. Category 1 campfires are still permitted within the City of Merritt with a valid permit.
FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT
David A. Tomkinson
Fire Chief
City of Merritt
1799 Nicola Avenue
PO Box 189, Merritt, BC V1K 1B8
Phone (250)378-5626 ext 4 | Fax (250)378-5621
Email: dtomkinson@merritt.ca
