Fast-Moving Grass Fire Near Vernon Draws Major Response

VERNON – A fast-moving grass fire broke out Sunday afternoon west of Highway 97, between Birnie, Bailey and Commonage roads, drawing a major response from Vernon Fire Rescue Service and supporting agencies.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2Bn67MvmuNg

Air Tractor water bombers arrived from Kamloops to continue aerial suppression.

Multiple calls began coming in to emergency dispatchers around 1 p.m. The blaze quickly grew to an estimated 40 to 50 hectares, slowing traffic along Highway 97 for much of the afternoon.

A fourth alarm was called, prompting mutual aid from the BX-Swan Lake and Coldstream fire halls.

The BC Wildfire Service also joined the effort, deploying two heavy air tankers that dropped fire retardant before six Air Tractor water bombers arrived from Kamloops to continue aerial suppression.

Several helicopters were also on scene, dropping water and assisting with fire operations.

The fire threatened nearby structures but was successfully held before any were lost. No injuries have been reported.

Crews remained on scene into the night, working to extinguish hotspots and ensure the blaze stayed under control.