The City of Vernon Emergency Support Services (ESS) program is providing assistance to temporarily displaced residents after a major water pipe break in an apartment building.
Just before 3:00 p.m., Vernon Fire Rescue Services (VFRS) was called to a report of a building alarm in the 4900 block of Okanagan Avenue. Upon arrival, firefighters found a pipe had burst in a third floor apartment, causing significant water damage to several surrounding units.
“The pipe appears to be part of the building’s fire suppression system,” said Deputy Fire Chief Dwight Seymour. “When the pipe burst and the water started rushing out, it activated the alarm. The water pressure was very strong so a number of units have been impacted by water damage, including several lower level apartments.”
Residents from two apartment units have been temporarily displaced from the incident and are receiving assistance from the ESS program.
Water to the building was turned off and a plumber is now assessing the site to determine where and how water can be restored for residents. A restoration crew is also on scene. No injuries have been reported.
“At this time, we don’t know what caused the pipe to burst,” said Deputy Chief Seymour. “Our first priorities were to make sure all the residents were safe, that we could stop the flow of water, and that those who needed emergency support received assistance.”
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