Osoyoos evacuees find refuge in Vernon

A dozen seniors forced from their homes in Osoyoos due to the Eagle Bluff wildfire were able to find a place to stay in Vernon.

Orchard Valley Retirement Residence opened its doors to 12 evacuees from the Mariposa Gardens Retirement and Care Community in Osoyoos on Saturday, July 29.

“Throughout this challenging transition, our compassionate team members have been working tirelessly, providing unwavering support to ensure the comfort and wellbeing of all evacuated residents. Orchard Valley has come together to welcome their new guests, offering special meals, music, and social activities,” a spokesperson for Orchard Valley stated in a written statement to Vernon Matters.

“We are grateful for the incredible display of community, the collaboration with local health authorities, and support from our partners during this challenging time. Our team members have consistently placed the needs of our residents at the forefront, demonstrating their dedication.”

The evacuees who arrived in Vernon were part of a larger group of 96 seniors, the majority of whom were able to stay at Lakeview Lodge in West Kelowna.

The retirement community spokesperson did not provide any information on the accommodations of the evacuees, including if they received their own rooms.

The statement did note the evacuees were able to bring some of their belongings, adding they are all doing well.

It was not stated when the seniors would be able to return to their homes in Osoyoos.

The majority of the Evacuation Orders associated with the Eagle Bluff wildfire were downgraded to Alerts Monday, though residents there were still urged to be prepared to leave at a moments notice in case conditions change and the fire becomes active and starts moving towards the South Okanagan community again.

As of 9:43 a.m. Tuesday, August 1, the Eagle Bluff wildfire was a total of 1,450 hectares in size, which included the activity south of the border, and was classified as Out of Control.

The B.C. Wildfire Service stated 50 firefighters were responding to the fire on the ground and they were being supported by six helicopters. There was also an Incident Management Team, seven pieces of heavy equipment and 65 structure protection personnel assigned to this fire.