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Vernon Fire Rescue Service members.  (City of Vernon photo)
monitoring fire activity

City and Vernon Fire Rescue ready to respond

Aug 22, 2023 | 4:00 PM

Vernon Fire Rescue Services (VFRS) and City of Vernon staff are watching the local and regional fire situation closely.

Some local firefighters have been actively involved in some of the large fires in the Okanagan.

“Over the last several weeks, VFRS has provided both personnel and apparatus to help with firefighting efforts in the southern and central regions of the Okanagan. We’re honoured to be part of the coordinated response efforts being provided by fire services from across the province and beyond, and are very proud of the work our crew members are doing,” Fire Chief David Lind stated. “Although we’ve been sending resources outside the community to help neighbours, we want to reassure residents in Vernon that if we have an emergency event happen here, we are resourced and ready to respond immediately.”

Since the Central Okanagan fires began, the city and VFRS have received questions about installing sprinkler systems on the roofs of properties and whether they would impact the local water supply.

“We know sprinkler systems can help save properties in the event of a wildfire, but we need to be very careful about how they’re used,” Lind advised. “If you install a sprinkler system on your property, do not turn it on before evacuating during an emergency. Doing so could strain the water supply for your neighbourhood, potentially hindering firefighting efforts.”

Instead, residents should follow the manufacturer’s instructions for sprinkler installation and leave a hose stretched down at ground level for structure protection crews to utilize. These dedicated teams will source water from an appropriate supply, ensuring the necessary resources are available for fire suppression.

If a wildfire happens in our area and you are placed on evacuation alert, please be ready to leave at a moment’s notice. If you receive an evacuation order, leave your home immediately, allowing firefighting crews to concentrate their efforts on fire suppression without delay, ensuring the safety of our community.

“Once again, we thank all the emergency responders, volunteers and community members who have stepped up during these difficult times,” Lind said. “Together we are navigating this wildfire season with resiliency and unity.”

Stay up-to-date

For updates and information regarding wildfires and emergency response activities, visit the following websites:

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