Home »
Self-fill sandbag stations available in RDEK
With the warm temperatures over the past few days, the potential for thunderstorms in the long-term forecast, and the anticipated start of spring freshet, the Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) has set up a number of self-fill sandbag stations and is reminding residents about the need to be cautious around all waterways.
The RDEK is encouraging residents who live in flood-prone areas to take steps to be prepared in the event the region does experience localized flooding.
Self-fill sandbag stations have been set up at:
Fairmont Hot Springs (behind old barn at Mountainside Golf Course) – Hot Springs Road (pictured);
Windermere Fire Hall – 1635 Highway 93/95;
Elk River Inn in Hosmer – Hwy 3 at 6th Avenue (in the lot south of the pub).
The sandbag stations have sand and bags; however, residents need to bring their own shovels and gloves. Additional sandbag stations will be set up as conditions warrant.
The BC River Forecast Centre has issued a Flood Watch for the East Kootenay as river levels are expected to rise due to current conditions and the RDEK is also urging residents to take steps now to prepare in the event of flooding and to be safe while out recreating.
“This time of year, preparedness and safety are key. Know the numbers to call, have a family emergency plan, plan ahead to protect your property from flooding if you are in low-lying areas, and ensure you stay well back from waterways as rapid, unpredictable changes in waterways are possible,” said RDEK communications director Loree Duczek.
The RDEK is in the process of distributing its seasonal flooding preparedness newsletter to all rural mailboxes in the region and it is posted on the Personal Preparedness page on www.rdek.bc.ca along with a host of other links and resources.
The RDEK continues to urge residents to sign up for the regional Evacuation Notification System, which notifies registrants by landline, mobile phone or text in the event their property or marked location is within an evacuation alert or order area. Registration instructions and more information are available on the Emergency Information page on www.rdek.bc.ca .
To learn more about how to prepare for emergencies, build an emergency kit or create a family emergency plan, visit www.PreparedBC.ca .
e-KNOW file photo
RDEK
