Smith Creek fire news release #17 from @CO_emerg

News Release No. 17

Date:  July 19, 2014

Time: 5:05 p.m.

 

West Kelowna, B.C. – As public safety is paramount, the Regional Emergency Operations Centre unfortunately advises that no one will be allowed to return to their homes this evening.

 

All Evacuation Orders and Alerts remain in effect for an estimated 2,500 people living in approximately 1,100 homes. 

 

The Incident Commander has determined that based on an assessment of active fire behaviour and weather conditions, especially this afternoon’s gusty winds, no one will be able to go home this evening.  Public safety is the number one priority.

 

Any change in status will be posted to the www.cordemergency.ca website and via local media.

 

The Emergency Support Services Reception Centre at Mount Boucherie Secondary School, 2751 Cameron Road in West Kelowna, will close tonight at 10:00 pm and reopen at 8:30 am tomorrowto provide assistance to those affected residents. 

 

Evacuated residents with animals that have any concerns may contact the Canadian Disaster Animal Response Team (CDART) at 250-470-0694.

 

The BC Wildfire Management Branch estimates the fire at 260-hectares in size and 30% contained.  The Branch says due to the extreme fire behaviour experienced with the Smith Creek fire, continued high temperatures, low humidity and strong winds, safety remains the top priority.

 

For the latest information and updated maps of the evacuation order and evacuation alert visitwww.cordemergency.ca.

 

 

Emergency response personnel request that the public:

 

·          Avoid the Smith Creek area so emergency responders can effectively perform their duties.

·          Okanagan Lake boaters stay away from the active area where helicopters and other aircraft may be filling with water.

·          Please only CALL 911 in case of emergency.

·          Public inquiries can be directed to 250-469-8490.

 

The Emergency Operations Centre is receiving a number of requests from members of the public who want to show their appreciation to emergency services and support functions.  The best way to do this is for residents to make sure they are prepared for the next emergency.  When residents and businesses are prepared for emergencies, first responders can do a better job of responding to critical needs.

 

Go to www.cordemergency.ca for the latest news and updated maps of the Evacuation Order and Evacuation Alert areas. Read updated posts at www.facebook.com/CORDEmergency or follow our tweets at www.twitter.com/CO_Emerg. The public information line is 250-469-8490.

 

 

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