A lightning caused fire in the Ta Ta Creek area, approximately 14 kilometres north of Kimberley, has caused an evacuation alert to be posted for the Ta Ta Creek area.
The area affected is west of the Kootenay River from 1.5 km. south of Farstad Way Road to 2.5 km. north of Woods Corner. This includes the town of Ta Ta Creek, the Stoney Lake Forest Rec Site, and the Lost Dog area.
This is not yet an order. The purpose of this Alert is to prepare you to evacuate your premises or property should it be found necessary. Residents will be given as much advance notice as possible prior to evacuation; however, you may receive limited notice due to changing conditions.
According to the Southeast Fire Centre, the fire was discovered on Friday, August 10 and is estimated at 200 hectares. This is an interface fire. There are currently nine firefighters and three pieces of heavy equipment on the fire. Ground crews worked into the night.
The fire is a cluster of three fires, and is being actioned by the BC Wildfire Service. The fires are not immediately threatening any structures or communities; however, the alert is being implemented to give residents time to prepare. In addition to making personal preparations, the RDEK recommends anyone with livestock or other animals make plans for their animals at the alert stage. Should anyone in the alert area need assistance, they can contact the Emergency Information Line.
Members of the Kimberley RCMP and Search and Rescue assisted with hand delivering alert notices Friday evening.
The RDEK encourages people within the evacuation alert area to put together important papers
While the Evacuation Alert is in place, you should prepare for a possible Evacuation Order by:
• Locating all family members or co-workers and designate a meeting point outside the evacuation area, should an Evacuation Order be called while separated.
• Gathering essential items such as medications, eyeglasses, valuable papers (e.g., insurance), immediate care needs for dependants and, if you choose, keepsakes (photographs, etc.). Have these items readily available for quick departure.
• Preparing to move any disabled persons and/or children. • Moving pets and livestock to a safe area.
• Arranging to transport your household members or co-workers in the event of an Evacuation Order. If you need transportation assistance from the area please call 250-426-2188.
• Arranging accommodation for your family if possible. In the event of an Evacuation Order, Reception Centres will be opened if required.
• Monitoring news sources for information on Evacuation Orders and locations of Reception Centres.
