Vernon Matters file photo

By Liam Verster

Drowning Call-Out

One person rescued from Okanagan Lake Wednesday evening

Jan 8, 2026 | 12:12 PM

First responders were called out to a drowning rescue shortly after nightfall Wednesday.

Vernon Fire Rescue Services (VFRS) said it responded to Okanagan Lake near Paddlewheel Park for a distressed person in the water at around 5:40 p.m. Jan. 7.

“Upon arrival, crews located an individual in the water and initiated a coordinated rescue with the Vernon North Okanagan RCMP,” the fire department said in a release.

“The individual was successfully rescued from the lake, and transported by B.C. EHS (Emergency Health Services) for further medical assessment.”

VFRS reminded people to be cautious around open water, especially in the winter as cold temperatures can pose serious and life-threatening risks.

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