Help comes flooding in

RDOS, City have done a good job with flood relief

It’s of very little comfort for those who have had their basements flooded or orchards damaged but recognition must be given to both the Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen and City of Penticton for how they’ve handled the potential flood problems thus far.

On the weekend, the Penticton Community Centre became an emegency centre for those who had to evacuate their homes near Tinhorn Creek.

Communications have been excellent. The media has been receiving regular press releases, officials have been accessible, and both the city and RDOS are updating their websites on a regular basis.

On the Monday afternoon of a holiday weekend, there’s Penticton city manger Peter Weeber, along with general manager of infrastructure Mitch Moroziuk, among others, out working away near the SS Sicamous.

They also appear to be sparing no expense with a portable dam. Sandbags have been available since the threat began more than a week ago. The fire chief made a run to Timmy’s to get treats for the folks using the emergency centre.

Then there are the volunteers — young people in particular (too many to name) — who have been out hauling sandbags and helping total strangers protect their property.

Even the Penticton & Wine Country Chamber of Commerce got in on the act, sending out a press release encouraging citizens to get the word out that Penticton wasn’t shut down for the weekend due to the fear of flooding. We were open for business and ready, as always, to welcome the world.

What’s happening is scary, but don’t worry, EZ Rock hasn’t had to pull “New Orleans is Sinking” from its play list yet.

Although an extreme example, compare this with Hurricane Katrina way back in 2005 when nobody seemed to know what the hell to do, until about the third day. (George W. Bush: “Brownie, you’re doing a heckuva job.”)

It’s comforting to know that the South Okanagan’s emergency preparedness is in good shape for if, and when, something serious does happen.