Hazard Discovered on Okanagan Lake Raises Safety Concerns

June 25, 2025: What Happened on Okanagan Lake?

While conducting a weekend training exercise, Vernon Search and Rescue (VSAR) volunteers discovered a dangerous floating hazard just west of Kin Beach on Okanagan Lake.

The team came across several tires tied together with rope, floating just below the water's surface—barely visible to the eye. The tires were removed from the lake, eliminating a potential risk to boaters and other water users.

A Serious Hazzard, Tires Tied together By Rope Floating Just Below Surface Of Okanagan Lake

Why the Discovery Is a Serious Risk

According to VSAR, “Floating just barely at the surface level, this submerged hazard would be extremely dangerous if hit at speed by any vessel, such as a high-speed personal watercraft or a ski boat towing a water-skier or wakeboarder.”

The chain of tires was found near an area of Okanagan Lake used in the past by wildfire aircraft to fill their water tanks

Photos of the tires were posted to VSAR’s official Facebook page, sparking discussion about the ongoing need to keep B.C. lakes safe and clean.

VSAR used the moment to remind lake users:

“Always be vigilant for the unexpected when enjoying the beautiful B.C. outdoors, and whenever possible, leave the area/environment cleaner than how you found it.”

Tire Hazzard Not Only A Hazzard For Boaters

Wildfire History Adds to Concerns

This particular stretch of Okanagan Lake isn’t just a popular recreation zone—it’s also a critical resource for wildfire suppression.

Back in August 2021, Coulson Aviation’s Air Tractor "Fire Boss" water bombers were filmed skimming water very near this area to fight a wildfire burning on the west side of the lake’s north end. Any submerged obstacle, such as these tires, could pose a serious threat not only to civilians but also to emergency aircraft during active fire seasons.

VSAR Crew Pulled Hazard From Lake

Was There Malicious Intent?

At this time, there’s no indication from authorities that the tires were placed intentionally to cause harm. Still, the potential for catastrophic injury or equipment damage remains the same, regardless of intent.

Keyword Focus: Okanagan Lake hazard, Vernon Search and Rescue, watercraft safety, Okanagan wildfire, Fire Boss skimmer, B.C. lake safety