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Vernon Fire Rescue Services apparatus in downtown Vernon. (Image Credit: Liam Verster/Vernon Matters)
By Liam Verster
Structure Protection

Wildfire training exercise to go in Vernon Saturday

Apr 17, 2026 | 10:44 AM

Vernon will host a special training event in preparation for wildfire season.

This Saturday, Vernon Fire Rescue Services (VFRS) will host other fire departments in a regional Engine Boss training exercise.

The training will provide firefighters with skills needed to serve as an Engine Boss in structure defence, including during wildland-urban interface situations.

“This type of training is critical to ensuring our officers and crews are prepared to lead and operate effectively during complex wildfire incidents,” VFRS Fire Chief, David Lind, said.

“Working through realistic scenarios alongside regional partners improves coordination and strengthens community safety.”

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The training will go in the Sunset Properties, Kokanee Estates, Beverly Hills Estates and the Outback areas, with initial apparatus staging at Okanagan Elementary School. There will be seven or eight regional fire departments taking part in this training, and VFRS said that would result in people seeing more fire personnel seemingly out on call.

This activity is part of a planned training exercise and no live fire will be used.

by Liam Verster
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