West Kelowna has requested that the Town of Oliver follow suit by erecting signs warning motorists to keep their cigarette butts where they belong.
Mayor Doug Findlater said West Kelowna has experienced several destructive interface forest fires. And due to the increasing fire hazard rating, the city is embarking on a signage campaign to educate motorists about the dangers of throwing cigarette butts out of vehicle windows.
The city has purchased six signs, which ask motorists not to throw cigarette butts out of moving vehicles. They also advise of provincial and municipal fines for infractions.
Findlater said the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure has agreed to install similar signage at the entrances to West Kelowna along Highway 97.
In order to ensure consistent messaging throughout the Okanagan, Findlater said they are asking neighbouring municipalities to consider similar sign installation.
“Fires do not know boundaries and it is important to have this message to educate the public and minimize fire threat,” he said.
On Monday, Oliver council decided to request the ministry to install similar signage in the rural area.
