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Now is the time to prepare for spring flooding: Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen

People are being asked to make their own emergency plan
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KVR Trail, Tulameen (Photo: Fire Chief Woodford)

With spring freshet potentially on its way sooner rather than later, the regional district is saying that now is the time for property owners to protect their buildings from rising water levels.

The Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen (RDOS) and its emergency operations centre issued a reminder on Wednesday, March 30, for people to minimize damage by taking “proactive measures” before the spring melt begins.

“Warmer temperatures are in the forecast, and that means spring melt may begin soon,” the regional district said in a statement.

“Now is the time to prepare if you live in vulnerable areas, on or near floodplains within the RDOS, or if you have previously experienced spring flooding.”

Homeowners and residents in Tulameen should be also aware that the lake is currently rising, the regional district added.

Sandbag centres will be activated in the high-risk areas across the South Okanagan, according to emergency operations.

To further help community members prepare for the potential rising water levels, the regional district’s emergency staff and volunteers will be present at the upcoming Penticton Home and Reno show on April 2 to 3 at the city’s trade and convention centre.

READ ALSO: 26th annual Penticton Home and Reno Show coming back in early April

People are asked to make their own emergency plan here before an unexpected event happens.

“In British Columbia, property owners are responsible for taking the necessary steps on their property to protect their homes and property from flooding, while government emergency programs focus on broader flood response measures,” the statement added.


@lgllockhart
logan.lockhart@pentictonwesternnews.com

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