Bald Range Wildfire - Information for evacuees

Find answers to common questions about the Bald Range Wildfire, including evacuation, re-entry, safety, utilities, and available support. This page provides the latest information and guidance for Summerland-area residents. This section will be updated as the situation evolves and new information becomes available. Please check back regularly for the latest updates and guidance.

How you can help those impacted by the wildfires?

Many generous community members are asking how they can support those impacted by the wildfires. Here are some ways you can help:

Food donations

Non-perishable, unexpired food items can be dropped off at Bethel Church, 945 Main Street, Penticton, between 9:00 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. Please use the side door.

Financial donations

For information about making a financial donation, please contact the Community Foundation of the South Okanagan | Similkameen.

Clothing and bedding

The Salvation Army in Penticton, 2469 S. Main St., Penticton, is accepting clothing and bedding donations.

Help Summerland is a volunteer-organized community resource connecting people who need help with those who can offer it.

You can post what you HAVE — such as shelter, food or supplies — or what you NEED.

If you need support

If you have been impacted by the wildfires and need assistance, please reach out to the agencies and resources listed above.

Thank you to everyone who is donating, volunteering and supporting our community during this difficult time. Every contribution makes a difference.

United Way - Emergency Resources (Current as of August 25, 2026)

Trying to locate a loved one?

Seniors' Centre residents: Interior Health has a dedicated call centre for families seeking updates on evacuated residents from Dr. Andrew Pavillion and Summerland Seniors Village. Families can call 1-833-971-5045. Read their announcement here. 

Other individuals: Please fill out the Missing Person Inquiry form so it can be logged and forwarded to the Emergency Services Support Program (ESSP) for review. Due to the high volume of requests currently being processed, response times may be longer than usual. We appreciate your patience during this time.

If your loved one is located, ESSP staff will advise them that you have reached out and are seeking to make contact.

Please note that if we are unable to locate the individual, no further updates will be provided regarding this submission. We kindly ask that you do not contact the City or ESSP for status updates, as staff are focused on processing requests and supporting those affected.

I had to leave animals behind. What should I do?

Animal Lifeline Emergency Support Team (ALERT) is on-site at the ESS Reception Centre and is providing animal care services. For assistance, call 250-490-6531 or 250-328-4748.

Do not attempt to obtain a Temporary Access Permit to enter an evacuation order area for pet-related issues. Call ALERT for assistance.

If you have livestock, agricultural operations, or a large number of animals requiring assistance, contact the RDOS Call Centre at 250-490-4225.

Why can’t I get home now?

The decision to allow residents to return is based on public safety and the restoration of essential services. Even when the immediate wildfire threat has decreased, there may still be hazards such as damaged infrastructure, unsafe drinking water, disrupted wastewater services, dangerous trees, poor air quality, or active fire activity nearby.

In some cases, essential community services, including power, communications, and garbage collection, may need to be restored before re-entry can occur safely. Authorities work closely with emergency responders and service providers to ensure conditions are safe before residents are permitted to return.

When can I go home?

The District of Summerland is planning for a phased re-entry once conditions are safe and the area is ready. Crews are currently gathering reports on utilities and other infrastructure and will work to ensure affected areas are safe before re-entry can begin.

The first preliminary damage assessments are conducted on August 11, in some affected areas where it is safe for staff to access. The return of residents will occur in phases as areas are assessed and deemed safe.

The area is unsafe. Do not return until the evacuation order has been officially lifted.

Can I get a temporary access permit to go back into the evacuation zone?

Due to the high number of Temporary Access Pass (TAP) applications currently being received, processing times may be longer than usual. Permits are being assigned by key priorities: life safety, critical infrastructure, and commercial operations. Please submit only one application — multiple applications don't help and slow the system down. Wait to be contacted; do not re-apply. Each request will be managed as the situation allows.

Apply online: mymaps.rdos.bc.ca/tap

Email: eoctap@rdos.bc.ca | Phone: 236-500-2936

If you have been approved for a Temporary Access Permit, you must first report to the designated TAP check-in location before entering any area that remains under an evacuation order. Staff will verify your permit and provide instructions for safe access.

TAP Check-In Location: 9450 Prairie Valley Rd, Summerland.

Only individuals with an approved TAP will be permitted through the checkpoint. Please have your permit and identification ready, follow all directions from emergency personnel, and be prepared for delays as conditions can change rapidly.

Will late payment penalties or interest be applied to utility accounts during the emergency?

No. Late payment penalties and interest will not be applied to utility accounts during the designated emergency period.

Residents and businesses do not need to worry about late fees or interest if they are unable to make a utility payment during this time. Utility services and accounts will continue to be managed, while we recognize that the safety and well-being of our community remains the priority.

For questions about your utility account or payment options, please contact utilities@summerland.ca. Staff currently have limited access to computer systems, but will respond as soon as possible.

Online payment and e-billing options:
Utility Billing Information
Online Utility Account Portal

How many properties have been impacted by the wildfire?

Preliminary damage assessments indicate that approximately 110 structures have been damaged or destroyed in RDOS Electoral Area "F" (including Faulder and Meadow Valley), and approximately 40 structures within the District of Summerland. These numbers are preliminary and may change as assessments continue. If you have not yet called the Regional EOC to provide your contact information, please call 250-490-4225.

Where can I find mental health supports?

Returning home after an evacuation can bring a wide range of emotions. You may feel relief to be home, while also experiencing anxiety, sadness, anger, or uncertainty about what you will find. You may also find yourself worrying about the possibility of having to evacuate again. Seeing damage to your property or treasured possessions can be especially upsetting, particularly if they have sentimental value or cannot be replaced.

These reactions are a normal response to a stressful event and, for most people, become less intense as you regain a sense of safety, routine, and control. One of the best things you can do is create a support network. This may include family, friends, neighbours, or professionals. If these feelings become overwhelming or do not improve over time, consider reaching out to available support.

Interior Crisis Line Network - 1-888-353-2273
Suicide Crisis Helpline - 988
KUU-US (Indigenous) Crisis Line - 1-800-588-8717
Métis Crisis Line - 1-833-638-4722
Call 310-MHSU (6478) to reach your local Mental Health and Substance Use (MHSU) Centre
United Way - 2-1-1 (free and confidential phone line service that connects people to resources, including food and shelter, mental health and addictions support, legal & financial support, support for seniors, and more).
Canadian Mental Health Association: bc.cmha.ca/documents/coping-with-disaster-stress/First Nations Health Authority: fnha.ca/services-and-support/access-and-support/climate-emergencies/wildfire-response/
Canadian Red Cross: www.redcross.ca/how-we-help/emergencies-and-disasters-in-canada/get-help-disaster-relief-and-recovery/wildfire-information-and-support