Officials in Penticton, B.C. hosted an emergency preparedness town hall to familiarize the public with procedures ahead of what could be a busy wildfire season. The Regional District of Okanagan Similkameen (RDOS) along with representatives from local government, Okanagan Nation Alliance, and relevant agencies emphasized the importance of sharing information during a wildfire. The BC Wildfire Service (BCWS) community engagement specialist mentioned that while there are already wildfires burning across the province, it is still too early to predict the severity of the upcoming season due to factors like weather patterns and previous drought conditions.
The BC Wildfire Service app allows users to report wildfires with a photograph, which is geo-tagged to help pinpoint the exact location and provide valuable information to BCWS members. This feature can be especially useful in popular tourist areas like the Okanagan, where visitors may not be familiar with the geography. In addition to the app, residents can also report wildfires by calling *5555. BCWS is currently focused on training and preparing for the upcoming wildfire season by collaborating with local governments and ensuring that resources are allocated efficiently. Meanwhile, the RDOS advises residents to prepare by building a grab-and-go bag for their family and pets, creating an emergency plan, and fire-proofing their properties.
Evacuation alerts and orders are crucial during emergencies like wildfires, as they help to ensure the safety of residents in affected areas. An evacuation alert allows residents to prepare their emergency plan, while an evacuation order indicates an immediate safety threat that requires residents to leave the area. It is important for residents to follow evacuation orders to ensure their safety and the safety of responders working in the area. Last season, there were instances where residents refused to leave their homes under evacuation orders, prompting officials to take steps to secure the neighborhoods and communities. Homeowners are also advised to turn off their sprinkler systems when evacuated to prevent water wastage.
To stay informed during emergencies, residents can find information from local governments, the Regional District of Okanagan Similkameen, the BC Wildfire Service, and local media outlets. Keeping abreast of updates and following official guidelines can help individuals and families prepare for emergencies and make informed decisions during crises. By working together with emergency organizations, residents can contribute to a safer and more coordinated response to wildfires and other natural disasters. Taking proactive steps to prepare, report, and respond to emergencies can help mitigate risks and protect communities from potential harm.
