The City of Vernon Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) remains active and continues to coordinate emergency support for residents displaced by the Bradley Creek wildfire. This includes supporting evacuees, monitoring wildfire conditions, and working closely with BC Wildfire Service and emergency response partners to support the ongoing response.
Bradley Creek wildfire update
The Bradley Creek Wildfire remained relatively calm yesterday, with no significant growth reported. BC Wildfire Service is reporting the fire as 2,852 hectares and it remains classified as Out of Control.
Weather conditions remain a key factor, with increased winds expected over the coming days. Residents are encouraged to remain vigilant and prepared, as wildfire conditions can change quickly.
Highway 97 has reopened, but community members should continue to refer to DriveBC for the latest information on road conditions and closures.
For the latest wildfire information, including evacuation alerts and orders, visit EmergencyMapBC and the BC Wildfire Service website.
Emergency Support Services continue to support evacuees
The City of Vernon’s Emergency Support Services (ESS) Reception Centre at Kal Tire Place continues to support evacuees impacted by the wildfire.
As of noon on August 5, ESS has supported:
- 1,088 individuals (512 households) through in-person services at the Reception Centre
- 1,230 individuals (598 households) through online and phone registration
The Reception Centre’s regular operating hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily for evacuees requiring in-person assistance. These hours are adjusted where possible to support the needs of evacuees.
Evacuees can access ESS support in three ways:
- In person at the Reception Centre at Kal Tire Place
- By phone through the BC Evacuee Helpline at 1-800-387-4258
- Online through the ESS self-registration portal — be sure to set up the BC Services app on your phone prior to creating a profile in the Evacuee Registration Assistance tool
ESS continues to work proactively with evacuees requiring renewals or extensions of support. Individuals who have received ESS support through e-transfer can renew support through the BC Evacuee Helpline. Evacuees who have received paper referrals are encouraged to connect with an ESS representative in person 24 hours prior to expiry of their referral.
Please note that hotel availability remains extremely limited and we recognize that ESS supports may not cover the full cost of a local hotel. Evacuees are encouraged to stay with family or friends where possible.
Stay vigilant and report wildfires
Yesterday, a few small fires were reported in the area that were unrelated to the Bradley Creek Wildfire. Thanks to quick reporting by residents, crews responded rapidly and successfully extinguished both fires.
This serves as an important reminder that early reporting matters. If you see smoke or fire within City of Vernon limits, report it by calling 911 immediately. Quick action helps emergency crews respond before fires can grow.
Wildfire preparedness and FireSmart resources
Residents interested in reducing wildfire risk around their homes are encouraged to connect with local FireSmart representatives. FireSmart crews will be on site at Canadian Lakeview Estates on the morning of August 6 and at Predator Ridge that afternoon, offering information, educational materials, and practical guidance on wildfire mitigation measures that can help improve property resilience.
FireSmart representatives will continue to visit communities throughout the summer, providing residents with resources and advice to help prepare for wildfire season.
To learn more about FireSmart principles and wildfire preparedness at FireSmart BC.
Vernon Farmers' Market relocation
To support ongoing emergency operations, the Vernon Farmers' Market has been temporarily relocated to the parking lot outside the Vernon and District Performing Arts Centre. The market is expected to operate from this location until at least August 13. Residents are encouraged to follow the Vernon Farmers' Market on social media for the latest updates and any changes to market operations.
Community appreciation
The City extends its sincere appreciation and support to OKIB and other regional partners, along with BC Wildfire Service, emergency responders, volunteers, and residents for their continued efforts throughout this response.
The City of Vernon will continue to provide updates as new information becomes available. Residents are encouraged to follow official updates through vernon.ca/bradley-creek, and the City's Facebook page.
Residents are encouraged to stay informed through official sources, including OKIB, RDNO and City of Vernon communication channels. To receive City updates directly to your inbox, sign up for e-news at vernon.ca/subscribe.