Wildfire Alert for Kelowna and West Kelowna
Press Release
Wildfires are continuing to spread and there are more evacuation alerts throughout the Province. Here are some important resources that may be of assistance to you. Stay safe, everyone:
CURRENT EVACUATION ALERTS AND ORDERS: BC Wildfire Service (gov.bc.ca)
For more information and resources please visit: Emergency Info – MNBC | MNBC
If you are asked to evacuate, it is very important that you register with Emergency Support Services either online at ess.gov.bc.ca, by calling by calling the Emergency Support Services Info Line 1-800-585-9559 or in person at your local Emergency Support Services Reception Centre. This helps Emergency Operations ensure that people are safe and accounted for. Evacuation Orders and/or Alerts have been issued in the following areas. For the most up-to-date information, check with your band office, municipality or local government.
We know this is a very stressful time for many, please know there is wellness support for evacuees as well. A 24/7 call-in line is available to provide psychosocial and wellness support to evacuees over the phone. This is a free service for those evacuees who might find it helpful to speak with someone.
Phone: 1 888 686-3022
BE PREPARED
If you are concerned you may be asked to evacuate, here is some information on what you can prepare to pack. Lists from EMBC.
Emergency kit supply list
Put supplies in one or 2 containers, such as plastic bins or duffel bags. Store them in an area of your home that’s easy to get to, such as a hall closet, spare room or garage.
- Non-perishable food: minimum three-day to one-week supply, with a manual can opener
- Water: four litres per person, per day for drinking and sanitation
- Phone charger, battery bank or inverter
- Battery-powered or hand-crank radio
- Battery-powered or hand-crank flashlight
- Extra batteries
- First-aid kit and medications
- Personal toiletries and items, such as an extra pair of glasses or contact lenses
- Copy of your emergency plan
- Copies of important documents, such as insurance papers and identification
- Cash in small bills
- Garbage bags and moist towelettes for personal sanitation
- Seasonal clothing, sturdy footwear and emergency blanket
- Dust masks
- Whistle
- Help/OK Sign (PDF): Display the appropriate side outward in your window during a disaster.
Make a grab-and-go bag
A grab-and-go bag is a small emergency kit that’s easy to take with you, in case you need to leave right away. It’s a good idea to make grab-and-go bags for your home, workplace and vehicle.
Include:
- Food (ready to eat) and water
- Phone charger and battery bank
- Small battery-powered or hand-crank radio
- Battery-powered or hand-crank flashlight
- Extra batteries
- Small first-aid kit and personal medications
- Personal toiletries and items, such as an extra pair of glasses or contact lenses
- Copy of your emergency plan
- Copies of important documents, such as insurance papers and identification
- Cash in small bills
- Local map with your family meeting place identified
- Seasonal clothing and an emergency blanket
- Pen and notepad
- Whistle
Have plenty of water
Most people need four litres of water per person per day, but some people may need more. For example, children, people who are nursing or people who are sick. Hot temperatures can double water needs.
Pets need about 30 mL of water per kg of body weight per day. For example, a cat or small dog needs at least half a cup of water each day.
Water must be safe to drink
Purchase bottled water for an emergency kit. Keep it in its original container in cool and dark place that’s easy to reach.
You should not:
- Open the water until you need it
- Use water that’s past the expiry or “best before” date printed on the bottle
- Use water from toilet tanks or bowls, radiators, waterbeds, swimming pools or spas
If your regular water supply becomes contaminated, you can purify and bottle your own water. If you use a water filtration device, it’s still a good idea to store some bottled water as well.
For more information about the wildfire here
IHT4
