A horse trainer in the South Okanagan narrowly escaped the Bald Range wildfire near Summerland, managing to evacuate a herd of horses just in time. Michelle Van Baalen described the harrowing experience, recounting how she was in Penticton for dinner when she received a text message with a picture of a smoke plume. The message prompted her to return home immediately.
Van Baalen and her horses were able to escape the flames just before the fire reached their property. She said the situation was extremely dangerous, with the fire spreading rapidly and forcing her to make a quick decision. The evacuation was a last-minute effort, as the fire showed no signs of slowing down.
Local authorities confirmed the fire was still active in the area, though no injuries were reported. Van Baalen is now focusing on ensuring the safety of her animals and assessing the damage. The incident highlights the unpredictable nature of wildfires in the region and the challenges faced by residents during such events.
The community remains on high alert as firefighters work to contain the blaze. No further details on the fire’s origin or size have been released.
