The RDKB EOC, hosted two community meetings last night in Grand Forks and Christina Lake, providing an update to the wildfires that could have an impact
On both communities. In Grand Forks the public meeting was held at Grand Forks Secondary School and in Christina Lake at the Community Hall. Grand Forks saw approximately 500 people and Christina
Lake upwards of three hundred, with both venues experiencing above capacity numbers.
Providing information updates were the RDKB CAO and EOC Director, the Wildfire Management Branch, RDKB Area C and D Directors and the Office of the Fire Commissioner. Updates were provided on the Rock Creek Fire and the more worrisome fire in the US, the Kettle Complex (Stickpin), which is located just south of the US/Canada border. Alvin Boyle from the Wildfire Management Branch advised they will be assisting with the Kettle Complex fire, providing Canadian wildfire fighters and resources. They also told both groups that preparations for evacuation plans have been put in place for both areas, although at this time Grand Forks is of less concern than the Cascade Ponderosa and Santa Rosa areas of Christina Lake.
What is the process should there be an evacuation alert
- · The EOC activates the Evacuation Alert
- · The EOC identifies the Evacuations Zones. Once these zones are identified, each road and house number in that zone is provided to the RCMP, who go door to door to alert each resident. If there should be an evacuation order the RCMP will again go door to door advising residence of the situation.
- · The Evacuation alert will be posted on the RDKB website, Twitter and Radio.
- · At this time residents are not required to evacuate, however, people resident or present within the area are requested to prepare to leave the area with very short notice.
When an Evacuation Order is activated:
- · You must leave your home immediately and vacate the area by using local roads and Highway 3 east.
- · Evacuees are required to report to the Trail Memorial Centre (Arena) at 1051 Victoria Street, Trail
- · Even if you do not need assistance, you are required to check in and register in order for the EOC to account for you and your family members.
Some things to remember should an evacuation occur:
- · Ensure your house number is highly visible
- · When driving on highways that are impacted by wildfire drive with care and do not stop unless required to.
- · Pack your important documents and medications
- · Be wildfire prepared, for more information go to www.rdkb.com
How to Prepare:
Step 1 Know the Risks
Step 2 Make a phone list
Step 3 Pick a meeting place
Step 4 Make a plan for your kids
Step 5 Know where to get information
Step 6 Know how to turn off your utilities
Step 7 Store emergency water
Step 8 Stock emergency supplies
Step 9 Consider special needs
Step 10 Secure your space
Step 11 Create a grab and go bag
