Salmon Arm's Coyote Park smoking ban sparks wildfire safety concerns

City officials in Salmon Arm, British Columbia, remind visitors that Coyote Park is a smoke‑free area under the Parks and Open Spaces Bylaw. Resident Valerie Millar reported finding several discarded cigarette butts during a walk on August 5, warning that smoking could ignite a fire amid ongoing drought and nearby wildfire smoke.

Planning and Community Services Director Gary Buxton confirmed the bylaw prohibits smoking except in designated areas and noted enforcement is difficult because it requires identifying the offender. He advocated an educational approach, encouraging polite reminders to smokers. The city is also planning wildfire mitigation work for Coyote Park and nearby South Canoe to reduce fire risk.