It wasn’t perhaps the most dramatic of emergencies, but the natural gas break in Lavington had widespread consequences.
Many Lavington residents were forced out of their homes. Lavington Elementary students were evacuated, Highway 6 traffic was rerouted and natural gas was shut off to the entire Village of Lumby.
There was considerable uncertainty for residents who had to leave pets behind or had small children unsettled after spending Thursday at a reception centre. In Lumby, there were concerns that conditions could get quite cold without a source of heat.
But despite all of the challenges, there were also some positives.
Municipal staff in Coldstream and Lumby, the RCMP, volunteer firefighters and Fortis crews responded immediately. They ensured that the safety of the public, whether in their homes or travelling on Highway 6, was the first priority. Resources were mobilized quickly, including ensuring the Coldstream Women’s Institute Hall was available for evacuees.
But particular credit needs to go to North Okanagan Emergency Management and its administrative staff and team of trained volunteers. Not knowing when the evacuation order would be over, the volunteers ensured impacted residents were fed and comfortable, and had access to motels and other resources if needed.
But beyond that, they were compassionate and caring, and willing to provide support during an anxious time.
We often take community services for granted and don’t think of the people behind the scenes. But Thursday’s natural gas break is another reminder of the tremendous region we live in and the generosity that abounds.
