An evacuation alert was issued on Friday for nine properties in Twin Lakes.
The Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen said a local state of emergency and an evacuation alert for the area is due to the threat of flooding in the vicinity of Horn and Nipit Lakes (Twin Lakes) increasing the potential danger to life and health and property damage.
Twin Lakes Road properties numbered 186, 188, 190, 192,194, 196, 198, 200 and 202 are presently under the alert.
“So this is an evacuation alert, not an order,” Dale Kronebusch, RDOS emergency services supervisor, previously told the Western News while explaining what an alert means. “So they can stay in place but be ready to go in a moments notice. This gives them the opportunity to get valuables together, get the essentials and have their pets on a short leash.”
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The RDOS said affected residents will be given as much advance notice as possible prior to evacuation, however, residents may receive limited notice due to changing conditions.
What you should do when an evacuation alert is in effect:
Upon notification of an evacuation alert, residents should be prepared for immediate evacuation by:
Locating all family members or co-workers and designate a reception centre outside the evacuation area, should an evacuation be called while separated;
Gathering essential items such as medications, eyeglasses, valuable papers (i.e. insurance), immediate care needs for dependents and, if choosen, keepsakes (photographs, etc.). Have these items readily available for quick departure;
Preparing to move any disabled persons and/or children;
Moving pets and livestock to a safe area;
Arranging to transport household members or co-workers in the event of an evacuation order. Affected residents needing transportation assistance from the area can call 250-492-0237;
Arranging accommodation for family members if possible. In the event of an evacuation, reception centres will be opened if required;
Monitoring news sources for information on evacuation orders and locations of reception centres.
For more information call 250-492-0237 or toll-free 1-877-610-3737.