The City of Vernon has concluded its response to the Bradley Creek wildfire.
After weeks of coordinated work alongside regional, provincial and local partners to support evacuees, coordinate resources and keep the community informed, the City is now transitioning back to regular operations.
The Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) stood down on August 19, 2026, and the emergency management team will continue to monitor local and provincial conditions and work with its partners as the wildfire season evolves.
The City’s emergency program maintains a stand-ready EOC that can quickly scale up or down in response to complex emergencies or disasters. Employees from across the organization train and practice throughout the year to build their skills and maintain a high level of readiness.
“Since the Bradley Creek wildfire began, Vernon has supported thousands of evacuees through our host-community Emergency Support Services response,” says Vernon Fire Rescue Services Chief David Lind. “Our ESS teams, volunteers and community partners worked together to provide accommodation, food, essential supports and trusted information, while helping people navigate a difficult and uncertain time. As our host-community response comes to an end, I want to thank everyone who stepped up to support evacuees. As a community, you once again took on a difficult task and did your very best to help people during a time of need.”
The City’s host-community ESS response is concluding, Kal Tire Place has returned to regular facility operations and hours.
Coordinating the community response
The EOC was activated on Aug. 1 in response to the Bradley Creek wildfire and its impact on surrounding communities.
Throughout the activation, the City worked closely with Okanagan Indian Band, neighbouring communities, BC Wildfire Service, Emergency Management BC and regional and provincial partners to coordinate information, resources and support.
Over the course of the response:
- More than 2,600 evacuees from 1,765 households were supported through the City of Vernon’s ESS response, with assistance provided through the ESS Reception Centre at Kal Tire Place, as well as online and by phone.
- Group lodging was established to provide temporary accommodation for evacuees.
- City services were adjusted to welcome and support evacuees, including free access to the Vernon Recreation Centre pool and a dedicated pet relief area.
Staying prepared as wildfire season continues
As wildfire season continues, residents are encouraged to remain vigilant and take steps to prepare their homes and properties.
One simple step is to keep the 1.5-metre area immediately around your home and decks free of combustible materials, including firewood, patio furniture, dry vegetation and other items that could fuel a fire. Small actions like these can make a meaningful difference in reducing wildfire risk and helping protect your home and neighbourhood. For more information, visit FireSmart BC.
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