With many wildfires burning throughout the region, the Regional District of North Okanagan is urging residents to follow Evacuation Orders for properties affected.
When an Evacuation Alert is issued, it means we want residents to get prepared to leave should things progress. When an Evacuation Order is issued it means there is a direct threat to human life and safety. Remaining in an Evacuation Order area puts first responders at tremendous risk, as well as the life and safety of residents choosing to stay behind. When this happens efforts are taken away from actively suppressing the fire and protecting structures, and are redirected towards tactically evacuating those who choose to remain in their homes.
“Wildfires are extremely unpredictable and should not be taken lightly”, said David Sewell, Chief Administrative Officer for the RDNO. “We just want to ensure everyone stays safe and that the BC Wildfire Service can complete suppression efforts as efficiently as possible”.
The Regional District of North Okanagan currently has three fires of note in the area including White Rock Lake (K61884), Bunting Road (K41561) and Winnifred Creek (K42042). The Evacuation Alerts and Orders for these fires remain in effect and can be found in more detail at www.rdno.ca.
The City of Vernon has opened an Emergency Support Services (ESS) Centre for Regional District of North Okanagan residents evacuated as a result of wildfires in the area. The reception centre is located at the Dogwood Gym in the Vernon Recreation Centre located at 3310 37 Avenue in Vernon. Up to date information on hours can be found on the City of Vernon website.
The RDNO thanks the City of Vernon for their support in providing space for the ESS reception, and also thanks the City of Armstrong and the Township of Spallumcheen for their collaboration and support.
Further information will be issued as updates are received from the BC Wildfire Service. Residents are encouraged to visit www.rdno.ca, the RDNO Facebook page, and listen to local radio for updates.