Prepare for the worst, and hope for the best
The Regional District of the Central Okanagan advices Central Okanagan people to prepare for an emergency, when there is no emergency
There’s still snow on the ground and much more than would normally be measured at this time of year in the higher elevations.
While future snowfall and spring weather will determine whether we have Áooding this year, if your property has been impacted in the past, this is a good time of year to develop or go over your Áood and family emergency plans.
Start thinking about how you’ll protect your property and reduce the risk of damage in the event of high water.
Property owners living near creeks, streams and low-lying areas that have Áooded in the past and those with lakefront properties are responsible for having a plan as well as the tools and equipment necessary to protect their properties from possible Áood damage.
Before doing any work in and around water courses or sensitive areas, check with your local government planning staff, as you may require special authorization or permits.
There are many federal and provincial resources available to help your family prepare.
You’ll Ànd links by clicking on the Be Prepared menu option across the top of the Central Okanagan Emergency Operations website www.cordemergency.ca.
There’s information on how to assess potential emergency risks; how to make a plan and prepare a family grab-and-go emergency kit.
If your family is ahead of the game and already has an emergency kit, this is a good time of year to check through and replenish it.
Remember to replace any water, food or special medications that may have expired. And add anything that’s missing that your family might need.
While you’re on the www.cordemergency.ca website, sign up to receive email updates directly from the Emergency Operation Centre.
Thousands of Central Okanagan residents have already subscribed and know that this is the best way to get information when the EOC is activated during an emergency.
As well, our social media channels are available with the latest information during an emergency via Facebook (www.facebook.com/CORDEmergency) and Twitter (https://twitter.com/CO_Emerg).