Emergency Support Services (ESS) - Reception Centre Closure

The ESS Reception Centre in Penticton closed on August 28, 2026, at 4:00 pm.

Residents requiring assistance can continue to contact ESS:

• BC Evacuee Helpline 1-800-387-4258 (7:30 am to 5:00 pm daily)
• 250-486-1890 (10:00 am to 4:00 pm daily)

Giant’s Head School, 1053 Prairie Valley Road, Summerland
Hours of operation: Tuesday to Friday, 10:00 am to 5:00 pm; Saturday, 10:00 am to 1:00 pm

Residential services were heavily impacted by the Bald Range Wildfire, including the loss of remote communication and the reservoir running dry.

Community wells, the pumphouse, treatment plant, generators and reservoir sustained minimal damage, but power lines, trees, and telecommunication lines were severely impacted.

Sampling stations and hydrants are being repaired, and power has been restored to the treatment plant. More information will be provided once confirmed.

Faulder Water System: The RDOS, in consultation with the Interior Health Authority (IHA), has issued a DO NOT CONSUME order effective immediately (Thursday, Sept. 10, 2026).

Click here to view the DO NOT CONSUME order.

The Faulder Water System operations team has completed full pressurization and flushing of the distribution system.

Residents with homes remaining have service access restored. For residents who are interested in temporary water service access, please contact RDOS Utilities to request a turn-on: utilities@rdos.bc.ca or 250-490-4135.

Access restrictions and safety concerns remain in place in the Faulder area. Significant hazards, including danger trees and slope stability issues, present a life-safety risk along trails and backroads.

Security checkpoints and roaming patrols are in place at all hours. Any unauthorized access will be recorded and reported to the RCMP.

The RDOS continues to manage access through a Prohibit Entry Order for designated properties in Faulder, South Meadow Valley, and Callan Road. Access remains limited to authorized property owners and approved individuals displaying a valid Access Permit.

The Princeton-Summerland Road remains closed to through traffic except for residents, permit holders, and authorized crews supporting recovery efforts.

Residents of the Chain Lake and Osprey Lake areas may use Princeton-Summerland Road to travel to and from their properties. This access is intended to allow residents to reach services in Penticton and Summerland, including medical appointments and other essential needs.

Residents must carry and present a valid access pass or proof of residency when travelling through security checkpoints.

If you are not authorized to enter the area, please use alternate routes and recreation areas.

Please respect access restrictions and the residents affected by the wildfire.