RDNO encourages residents to be prepared
The Regional District of North Okanagan (RDNO) is aware of the wildfire threat within the Regional District of Central Okanagan (RDCO), including West Kelowna, Kelowna and, Lake Country.
As a result of the Clifton/McKinley fire, transit services have been affected. BC Transit has advised that Route 90 UBCO / Vernon is currently suspended until further notice. In addition, the Regional District of Central Okanagan Emergency Operations Centre has requested that waste intended for the Glenmore Landfill be temporarily diverted as a precaution, should the Glenmore Landfill be closed.
Commercial waste loads will be accepted at the Greater Vernon Diversion and Disposal Facility (GVDDF) carrying residential curbside collection, commercial haulers, and demolition/construction roll offs. The RDNO strongly encourages residential self-haulers to defer their trip to the GVDDF so that we can assist the RDCO and effectively manage the additional waste during this time.
We are monitoring the situation closely and have increased the readiness of the BX/Swan Lake, Silver Star and Lumby Fire Departments. The RDNO has activated their Emergency Operations Centre for assistance and preventative measures.
The RDNO also advises the public that its water systems are not designed for mass use of sprinklers on houses, as it runs the risk of lowering water pressure and using storage capacity when it is critically needed by the emergency responders.
Residents are strongly encouraged to be prepared in the event of an emergency and to stay safe by preparing an emergency plan and packing a grab-and-go bag (essential supplies for 72 hours). Visit www.PreparedBC.ca for more information on how to create a plan and what to include in your grab-and-go bags.
Additional safety reminders:
- Ensure your vehicle has fuel. The tank should always be at least half-full.
- If you know someone who may not have access to the internet or regular news updates, share emergency preparedness information and resources with them.
- With limited hotel and camping accommodations available during the high summer season, consider making a plan to stay with family or friends in a safe location, in the event of an evacuation.
- Know the evacuation stages
- Evacuation Alert: This means be ready to leave on short notice
- Evacuation Order: You are at risk. Leave the area immediately
- Evacuation Rescind: All is currently safe and you can return home
The public are encouraged to download the Alertable app which is used to send alerts and information about significant emergencies that occur within our Electoral Areas, along with posting information to our website at www.rdno.ca, Facebook page, e-newsletter (Emergency Management list), and sending information to local media.