Okanagan residents are being urged to focus on their emergency preparedness plans as the season for hazards like wildfires and extreme weather approaches. Deputy fire chief Sandra Follack of the Regional Emergency Program emphasized the importance of creating an emergency kit, developing a family emergency plan, and learning about hazards in the area. Residents and businesses can access online resources through PreparedBC.ca, which provides guidance on building a household emergency kit and making a plan. The Regional Emergency Program’s Ask an Expert video series will offer information on post-wildfire hazards, emergency preparedness, and FireSmart activities to help communities in the Central Okanagan take action and be ready for any situation.
In addition to resources from PreparedBC, FireSmartBC programs are available to help residents protect their properties from fire hazards. Those interested can visit their local government’s website to learn about FireSmart programs, events, and activities in their area. The Central Okanagan Emergency Operations Centre is also running a Community Readiness Public Engagement initiative to gather insights from community members on emergency preparedness. Residents and businesses in Westbank First Nation, Peachland, West Kelowna, Kelowna, the District of Lake Country, and RDCO electoral areas are encouraged to participate before May 12. By visiting yoursay.rdco.com and completing a short questionnaire, participants can share their level of preparedness and enter a draw to win one of four emergency preparedness kits valued at $170.
By focusing on emergency preparedness, Okanagan residents can ensure they are equipped to handle potential hazards like wildfires and extreme weather events. Creating an emergency kit, developing a family emergency plan, and staying informed about local hazards are key steps in being prepared for emergencies. Online resources from PreparedBC, including guidance on building a household emergency kit and making a plan, are available for residents and businesses. The Regional Emergency Program’s Ask an Expert video series will provide important information on post-wildfire hazards, emergency preparedness, and FireSmart activities to help communities in the Central Okanagan take actionable steps and be ready for any situation that may arise.
FireSmartBC programs offer additional resources for residents looking to protect their properties from fire hazards. By visiting their local government’s website, individuals can learn more about FireSmart programs, events, and activities in their area. The Central Okanagan Emergency Operations Centre is running a Community Readiness Public Engagement initiative to gather insights from community members on emergency preparedness. Residents and businesses in various areas are encouraged to participate by completing a short questionnaire on yoursay.rdco.com before May 12. By sharing their level of preparedness, participants can enter a draw to win one of four emergency preparedness kits valued at $170, emphasizing the importance of being ready for emergencies in the Okanagan region.
Overall, it is crucial for Okanagan residents to prioritize their emergency preparedness plans as the season for hazards like wildfires and extreme weather approaches. Taking simple steps such as creating an emergency kit, developing a family emergency plan, and staying informed about local hazards can go a long way in ensuring readiness for potential emergencies. Online resources from PreparedBC and FireSmartBC programs offer valuable guidance and information to help residents protect their properties and take actionable steps towards preparedness. With initiatives like the Community Readiness Public Engagement initiative, residents have the opportunity to share their insights on emergency preparedness and potentially win an emergency preparedness kit. By coming together as a community and prioritizing emergency preparedness, Okanagan residents can be better equipped to handle any potential hazards that may come their way.
