How to support B.C. wildfire evacuees and prepare for fire risk

British Columbia remains under a provincial state of emergency after fast-moving wildfires forced thousands of people from their homes, including the evacuation of Summerland. The Bald Range wildfire, reported Aug. 7, was still out of control at nearly 15,590 hectares, according to the BC Wildfire Service.

On Aug. 8, the Regional Districts of Okanagan-Similkameen and Central Okanagan, the District of Summerland and Penticton Indian Band issued a BC Emergency Alert ordering residents to evacuate. Premier David Eby said emergency officials needed the powers available under a provincial emergency to respond to the fast-moving fire and large-scale evacuation.

The wildfire service warns of a high potential for lightning-caused fires in the central Interior and Okanagan, where precipitation is limited and dry lightning is possible. It says continued heat and wind gusts could intensify fire behaviour, particularly on steep terrain.

Anyone who sees a wildfire can report it at 1-800-663-5555, by calling *5555 from a cellphone or through the BC Wildfire Service app. The service says public reports are important because smoke can limit aircraft visibility and reduce detection technology’s effectiveness.

The provincial government says financial donations to trusted organizations are the most effective way to help people affected by wildfires. It identifies the United Way B.C. Wildfire Recovery Fund, the Canadian Red Cross 2026 British Columbia Wildfires Appeal and the Community Foundation of South Okanagan Similkameen’s SOS Wildfire Response Fund. Residents are also urged to register for local alerts, make an evacuation plan and follow trusted information sources such as BCWS, DriveBC and EmergencyInfoBC.