Bradley Creek wildfire survivors face uncertain rebuilding future

Bill and Kelly Richards say the Bradley Creek wildfire reduced their home to charred metal and ash within minutes last Saturday. They are among as many as 230 families believed to have lost homes in the fire.

At a property on Highway 97 north of Westside Road, a stone fireplace, chimney and outdoor pizza oven were left standing after a home burned. Video from nearby concrete fabrication company Black Walls Inc. showed the fire approaching and crossing the highway before the house caught fire.

Thousands of people remain under evacuation order, and many cannot inspect their properties because the burned area is still unsafe. Okanagan Indian Band Fire Department assistant chief Mike Doherty said crews are working to restore conditions for residents to return, but that it will take time.

The Richards say they are grateful to still have each other and their dogs. A neighbour's photo suggests their motorhome survived and may provide temporary housing, but the couple say they have limited savings and do not know how they will finance rebuilding.