The Regional District of Bulkley Nechako has issued an evacuation alert for the Ebenezer Flats area of Smithers due to rising waters.
The alert covers properties accessed through the the intersection of 22nd and Columbia Street in Smithers.
An evacuation alert is issued to prepare residents to evacuate should it be deemed necessary.
RDBN Chair Bill Miller says residents will be given as much advanced notice possible, but there may be limited notice because of changing conditions
WHAT YOU SHOULD DO WHILE THIS ALERT IS IN EFFECT
Be prepared for the evacuation order by:
- Monitor your local radio station and the Regional District of Bulkley-Nechako website, www.rdbn.bc.ca for information on an evacuation order.
- Locating all family members or co-workers and plan to meet at the designated Reception Centre outside the evacuation area, should an evacuation be called.
- Gathering essential items such as medications, eyeglasses, valuable papers (i.e. insurance), immediate care needs for dependants and, if you choose, keepsakes (photographs, etc). Have these items readily available for quick departure.
- Arranging accommodation for your family if possible. In the event of an evacuation, a Reception Centre will be opened
- Preparing to move any disabled persons and/or children.
- Moving pets and livestock to a safe area.
- Arranging to transport your household members or co-workers in the event of an evacuation order. If you need transportation assistance from the area please call (250) 692-3195 or 1-800-320-3339.
- Residents are reminded that flood waters may contaminate shallow wells and other water sources. If your well has been flooded, assume the water in your home has been contaminated. If water is contaminated, bottled water is the best choice for drinking water. For more information on water safety please visit the “Water Safety” link on the Regional District website at www.rdbn.bc.ca
- If you use a septic field and it has been flooded, please be sure the floodwater has drained well below the level of the distribution trenches before you begin using it.
For more information contact: Regional District of Bulkley-Nechako at 250-692-3195 or 1-800-320-3339.
