EOC Update: Nk’Mip Creek, Thomas Creek and Brenda Creek wildfire status July 23, 2021 10:00 am

News Article
Published: July 23, 2021

The Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen Emergency Operations Centre (RDOS EOC) is hosting a joint news briefing with representatives from BC Wildfire Service (BCWS), Osoyoos Indian Band (OIB), Town of Oliver, Town of Osoyoos, and Regional District of Kootenay-Boundary (RDKB) Friday, July 23, 2021, at 2:00 pm. The event will be live on the RDOS YouTube channel.

The RDOS EOC continues to work with BCWS to monitor the Nk’Mip Creek, Thomas Creek and Brenda Creek wildfires. 

July 23, 2021 11:00 am: There will be no permit access granted to properties under Evacuation Order in Electoral Area A and C due to the Nk'Mip Creek wildfire, until the situation changes.

  • Check DriveBC for updates if you’re travelling in the area
  • Please avoid operational areas including all communities under Evacuation Order
  • Boaters and pleasure craft operators are reminded to avoid Skaha Lake and Osoyoos Lake to allow air crews to conduct operations safely.
  • ESS Reception Centre at Royal Canadian Legion: 36217 Main Street, Oliver
  • ESS information: 250-486-1890

Nk’Mip Creek wildfire

  • Evacuation Orders in Electoral Area A remain in effect. Please note, previous Evacuation Alerts have been upgraded to Evacuation Orders. There are currently no Evacuation Alerts in effect for Electoral Area A.
  • Evacuation Orders and Evacuation Alerts remain in effect for Electoral Area C.
  • The Oliver Landfill is closed until further notice. Osoyoos Landfill (located at 17250 146 Avenue, Osoyoos) will be accepting materials from Electoral Area C and Town of Oliver at the Osoyoos landfill rates until the Oliver Landfill reopens.
  • Osoyoos Indian Band (OIB) members are encouraged to follow local community Facebook pages for updates.

Thomas Creek wildfire

Evacuation Alert remains in effect for 705 properties. The Okanagan Falls boat launch remains closed until further notice in order to assist with BCWS operations. A Provincial Area Restriction notice is in effect.

Brenda Creek wildfire

Evacuation Order remains in effect for 42 parcels. The RDOS continues to monitor the situation and work with BCWS, Central Okanagan Regional District and Thompson Nicola Regional District.

Please avoid camping or recreational activities near the area. A Provincial Area Restriction notice is in effect.

Issued by Director of EOC

 

 

Depending on the severity of the situation, an evacuation alert or order may be issued. It’s important to understand the different stages. Residents and visitors will be given as much advance notice as possible prior to evacuation; however, you may receive limited notice due to changing conditions.

To be ready, know your hazards and follow PreparedBC’s guides to prepare yourself, your family, home or business in case an evacuation is ordered. Health Evacuation Guidelines for COVID-19 have been developed by Emergency Management BC.

Please visit the RDOS EOC website for resource links and information updates: https://emergency.rdos.bc.ca/resources/

 

WHAT YOU SHOULD DO WHEN AN EVACUATION ALERT IS ISSUED

Upon notification of an ALERT, you should be prepared for the Evacuation Order:

Locate all family members and designate a meeting area outside the evacuation area, should an Evacuation Order be called while separated.

  • Take critical items only if they are immediately available:
    • government-issued ID
    • medications
    • eyeglasses
    • valuable papers (e.g. insurance, credit, and mortgage information)
    • immediate care needs for dependents
  • Prepare to move persons with mobility concerns, children and/or neighbors, if assistance is needed.
  • If you identify as having extraordinary needs, call RDOS EOC for assistance: 250-490-4225
  • Prepare to take pets with you and move livestock to a safe area (if possible).
  • For pet owners and hobby farmers with concerns for their animals, Animal Emergency Response Team (ALERT) can help: 250-809-715 or email info@alertcanada.org
  • Farmers who require assistance, please contact RDOS EOC.
  • Arrange transportation for all your household members.
  • Fill the gas tanks of personal vehicles. 
  • If transportation assistance is needed, contact RDOS EOC.
  • Please store your Firearms in accordance with Section 118 of the Firearms Act.
  • Arrange accommodation for all members of the residence, if possible.
  • Wait for an Evacuation Order to be issued before evacuating.
  • Monitor news sources, including CivicReady. 
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