Local emergency organizations and officials in the Okanagan region of British Columbia recently hosted an emergency preparedness town hall in Penticton to familiarize the public with procedures ahead of what could potentially be another busy wildfire season. The Regional District of Okanagan Similkameen (RDOS) emphasized the importance of providing information during a wildfire and ensuring that all partners, including residents, visitors, and the media, are aware of where to find the latest updates. Despite a number of wildfires already burning across the province, the BC Wildfire Service is still monitoring the weather conditions for the potential fire starts in the Okanagan.
Nicole Bonnett, a community engagement specialist with the BC Wildfire Service, highlighted the importance of reporting wildfires promptly. The BC Wildfire Service app allows users to report a wildfire with a photograph, which is geo-tagged to pinpoint the exact location and direction of the fire. This information is crucial for the operations team to deploy resources effectively. Residents can also report suspected wildfires by calling *5555. Bonnett emphasized the role of the public in helping wildfire services make informed decisions about allocating resources and responding to fire incidents in a timely manner.
As the BC Wildfire Service prepares for the upcoming fire season through training and coordination with local governments, officials are advising residents to take proactive steps in preparing for emergencies. Shane Houlihan, RDOS emergency program coordinator, recommended that residents build a grab-and-go bag for their families and pets, as well as creating an emergency plan. Brittany Siebert, RDOS emergency services manager, emphasized the importance of fire-smarting properties to reduce vulnerability to wildfires. Simple measures such as cleaning roofs, gutters, and ensuring fire-resilient vegetation can help protect homes from potential fire damage.
In the event of an emergency such as a wildfire, local governments and the BC Wildfire Service may issue evacuation alerts or orders based on the severity of the situation. Residents are advised to take evacuation alerts seriously and use that time to establish their emergency plans. An evacuation order indicates an immediate safety threat, requiring residents to leave the area to ensure their safety as well as allow responders to work effectively. The RDOS takes responsibility for securing properties under evacuation orders, including hiring security organizations to manage checkpoints and collaborating with law enforcement to ensure the safety of evacuated neighborhoods.
During previous wildfire seasons, the RDOS encountered challenges such as residents refusing to evacuate due to security concerns or leaving their sprinkler systems on while away from home. Officials stressed the importance of following evacuation orders and turning off sprinkler systems to prevent wasteful water use and potential hazards. Residents are encouraged to stay informed through local government channels, the Regional District of Okanagan Similkameen, the BC Wildfire Service, and local media outlets for the latest updates and instructions during emergencies. By working together and staying prepared, communities can effectively respond to wildfire threats and ensure the safety of residents and properties in the Okanagan region.
