Okanagan Indian Band residents can breathe a little easier now that evacuation alerts have been lifted.
The OKIB has rescinded all alerts now that the White Rock Lake wildfire is contained and the threat of spread has been extinguished.
DriveBC has also reopened the road, but a travel advisory remains in effect between Pinecrest Road and Goodwater Drive. An area restriction is in place due to the fire. Some side roads are closed with only local traffic allowed.
While Westside Road has been fully re-opened, residents are asking those who do not live in the area to respect their privacy.
Many residents have lost their homes and are requesting that those who do not live in the area stay away.
Residents who are cleaning up can look forward to fridge and freezer pick up this week.
Ram Environmental will be in the community picking up appliances as they see them.
If there are fridges and freezers inside residences, which some may need assistance moving are asked to call 1-855-238-9350 to schedule pick up.
“You do not have to remove all of the food from the appliance, however, taping them up so that they do not open up during moving and transportation is appreciated,” OKIB said.
For residents still staying in town, call Ram to schedule a time for pick up and allow workers permission to enter to remove appliances.
If you wish to drop off fridges and freezers prior to Ram coming by to pick them up, they can be dropped off at the staging area at the corner of Siwash Creek Road and 6 Mile Creek Road from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. this week.
READ MORE: No more spread expected as White Rock Lake fire under control
READ MORE: Hunters reminded to stay out of White Rock Lake wildfire area
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Smoke continues to be visible from the White Rock Lake wildfire, as pictured on the Westside across Okanagan Lake Tuesday, Sept. 7. (Jennifer Smith - Morning Star)
