Aug. 6 EOC Daily Update | ESS supports more than 2,600 evacuees as wildfire response continues

News
Public Notice

August 6, 2026
As the Bradley Creek wildfire response continues, the City of Vernon’s Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) remains focused on supporting impacted residents, coordinating Emergency Support Services (ESS), and working alongside emergency response partners to provide timely information and assistance to the community.

Bradley Creek wildfire update
BC Wildfire Service continues suppression efforts on the Bradley Creek wildfire, with crews working to strengthen control lines, manage hotspots, and reduce the potential for further spread.  

Warm temperatures, low humidity, and changing atmospheric conditions may contribute to increased fire activity if smoke conditions improve. Dry lightning is also expected, which may increase the risk of new fire starts.

For the latest wildfire information visit BC Wildfire Service. To check whether your property is under an Evacuation Alert or Order, visit EmergencyMapBC.

For updates on the Quilpituk Creek Wildfire, visit Central Okanagan Emergency Management.

ESS surpasses 2,600 evacuees
The City of Vernon's ESS team has now supported 2,608 evacuees from 1,262 households affected by the wildfire.

Since opening, the ESS Reception Centre at Kal Tire Place has helped residents access emergency accommodations, food supports, information, and other assistance. As of noon on August 6:

  • 1,214 individuals (588 households) have been supported through in-person services at the Reception Centre.
  • 1,394 individuals (674 households) have received assistance from ESS staff through online and phone registration processes.

The Reception Centre remains open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. for evacuees requiring in-person assistance.

Evacuees whose ESS supports are approaching expiry are encouraged to contact ESS through the same channel used for their initial support to discuss renewal options and avoid interruptions in service.

ESS volunteer opportunities
The City has received an overwhelming response from community members interested in volunteering and helping their neighbours. ESS is a provincial program, and volunteer intake includes orientation and training to ensure volunteers are prepared to support emergency response.

Serving as an ESS volunteer is a meaningful year-round commitment that helps strengthen our community’s readiness before, during, and after emergencies.

While formal volunteer intake will take place in the fall, the City is collecting names from residents interested in joining the ESS program. Residents can add their name to the volunteer interest list.

Poor air quality and smoky conditions
Smoke from nearby and US wildfires continues to impact air quality in the region. Residents are encouraged to monitor air quality conditions and take precautions to reduce exposure when smoke levels are elevated.  

To reduce exposure during periods of poor air quality:

  • Limit time outdoors when smoke levels are high.
  • Consider reducing strenuous outdoor activities.
  • Keep windows and doors closed when possible.
  • Use air cleaners or filtration systems where available.
  • Check on neighbours, family members, and those who may be more impacted by smoke.

For current air quality information and health guidance, visit:

Please note that Lakeview and Lavington pools are closed today due to poor air quality, and all scheduled programs at both facilities have been cancelled. The indoor pool at the Vernon Recreation Centre remains open.

New pet-friendly relief area
To support evacuees with pets, the City is establishing a pet-friendly space at the Centennial Outdoor Arena. The space will include artificial turf, shade, misters, and designated areas for pets.

The area will provide evacuees with a safe place to spend time with their pets while accessing other supports. Security will be in place, and the space is expected to be available daily from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. beginning later today.

Local organizations collecting donations
We would like to sincerely thank our community for its incredible generosity and ongoing support through donations of goods and supplies. These contributions reflect the kindness, compassion, and community spirit that make our region so strong.

During emergency responses, coordinating donations requires careful planning to ensure items can be safely received, sorted, stored, and distributed to those who need them most.  

Although the City is not directly accepting donations, residents may consider supporting organizations such as:

These organizations are well equipped to ensure donations reach individuals, families, and animals in our community who can benefit most.

The City of Vernon continues to monitor wildfire conditions, support impacted residents, and coordinate with emergency response partners as the situation evolves.

The City will continue to provide daily updates to the community as new information becomes available.