The City of Vernon Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) continues to support response efforts related to the Bradley Creek Wildfire and is closely monitoring the situation.
The EOC will continue to provide daily updates to keep the community informed as the situation continues to evolve. Updates will include the latest information available on wildfire activity, Emergency Support Services (ESS), and other important information for residents.
The Greater Vernon community is encouraged to sign up for e-news updates from the City at vernon.ca/subscribe.
Bradley Creek Wildfire Update
BC Wildfire Service is reporting no significant growth on the Bradley Creek Wildfire, which is currently estimated at 2,852 hectares and remains classified as Out of Control.
Residents are reminded to remain vigilant, stay informed through official sources, and follow any evacuation alerts or orders that may be issued. Wildfire conditions can change quickly, and residents are encouraged to stay prepared.
For the latest wildfire information, including alerts and orders, visit the Emergency Map BC.
Emergency Support Services continue to support evacuees
The City of Vernon’s Emergency Support Services (ESS) Reception Centre at Kal Tire Place continues to welcome evacuees impacted by the wildfire.
Since opening, ESS has supported evacuees through both in-person and online registration services:
- In-person registrations at Kal Tire Place (Aug. 1 to Aug. 4): 755 individuals from 366 households
- Self-serve online registrations (Aug. 1 to Aug. 4): 685 individuals from 325 households
Some evacuees who completed online registration also attended the ESS Reception Centre, where ESS volunteers assisted them with the registration process. These individuals are counted under self-serve registrations and are not included in the in-person registration numbers.
During the peak of operations, ESS established 17 service stations to provide one-on-one support for individuals and families. These stations connected evacuees with essential supports, including temporary shelter, clothing, food, and other emergency resources.
ESS has been supported by approximately 50 volunteers daily who have helped provide assistance to evacuees during this response.
Ongoing ESS assistance
Evacuees who continue to require support are reminded to ensure their ESS registration and support needs are up to date.
If you are already registered with ESS and have previously received support through e-transfer, you can renew your assistance by calling the BC Evacuee Helpline at 1-800-387-4258.
If evacuees received paper referrals and require an extension for a hotel stay, you will need to connect with an ESS representative. ESS is attempting to proactively contact evacuees for renewals, but should you not receive a call, please visit the ESS Reception Centre in person.
Please note that BC Evacuee helpline can only provide shelter allowance and does not have access to hotel referrals. If you need assistance finding a hotel or other temporary accommodation, ESS personnel at the Reception Centre are available to help.
Hotel availability is currently limited. Where possible, evacuees are encouraged to stay with family or friends while alternative accommodations are being arranged.
The ESS Reception Centre remains open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. for evacuees requiring assistance.
Emergency shelter
For evacuees without shelter supports, the City of Vernon has established an emergency shelter at the Recreation Centre Auditorium to provide short-term overnight accommodations. Residents who are able to stay with family or friends are strongly encouraged to do so, as this shelter is intended for those who do not have other accommodation options.
Donations not currently being accepted
ESS is not currently accepting donations at the Reception Centre or seeking additional volunteers to support operations. The community’s generosity, willingness to help, and offers of support have been overwhelming, and the City sincerely appreciates everyone who has stepped forward to assist evacuees.
For those looking to make a difference, residents are encouraged to focus on preparedness efforts that build community resilience — including taking steps to make their homes more resilient to wildfire, creating emergency plans, and staying vigilant throughout wildfire season.
Remain vigilant and report wildfires
Residents are reminded to report wildfires immediately. Call 911 to report a wildfire within City of Vernon limits.
The City of Vernon will continue to provide updates as new information becomes available. Residents are encouraged to follow official updates through vernon.ca, the City’s social media channels, and other trusted emergency information sources.