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June 19, 2024 - 2:17 PM
High school students graduating from South Okanagan high schools often take part in so-called Sunset Parties in the backcountry and RCMP are once again reminding the young people that the bashes are unauthorized and dangerous.
The parties happen in secluded areas of bush along Carmi Road in Penticton and past Faulder near Summerland, places with no cell phone reception, and often involve binge drinking and huge bonfires.
RCMP point out that despite the recent rainy weather the fire danger rating is still high to extreme.
“Open fires, especially in dry and remote areas, can quickly become uncontrollable and pose significant dangers to both people and the environment,” Penticton RCMP media relations officer Const. Kelly Brett said in a media release issued today, June 19. “It’s crucial to understand the severe risks involved and the possible hefty fines associated to these unauthorized activities.”
Every year, the local school district actively discourages participation in the ‘Sunset Party’ and remind parents and guardians the district is not responsible if things go wrong.
"By engaging in conversations about the dangers and potential legal consequences of participating, parents can significantly contribute to preventing these unnecessary risks,” the release read.
RCMP in the South Okanagan will be patrolling the known party locations for the next few weeks to make sure there isn’t any underaged drinking or bonfires.?
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