Preparedness: Expect the best, plan for the worst

What risks should you plan for?

• Flood Emergencies

  Be aware of flood warnings and advisories in your area.

  General flooding can occur when water levels in lakes, creeks, or rivers rise due to heavy snowmelt, run-off or rain, typically in spring or early summer. Flash floods can result from exceptional weather events that may occur at any time of year. Ensuring that all culverts and discharge passages are kept clean and free of obstructions is the best defence against flash floods.

  Healthlink BC provides valuable information to BC residents on preparing for a flooding emergency, food and water safety, evacuation information and more. For more information on how to prepare for flooding in your area, visit the Province of British Columbia's Flood Preparedness or view PreparedBC's Flood Information for Homeowners & Home Buyers. For all other information on flood protection in BC, please visit www.gov.bc.ca.

  • How to Build a Sandbag Dike
• Wildfire Emergencies

  Know where the wildfires are.

  Wildfires are unpredictable and can quickly grow to threaten homes and vital infrastructure. The North Okanagan is an area at risk of wildfire, so being prepared is essential for your safety. 

  Visit our Fire Preparedness page for great information. 

• Extreme Weather Events

  Keep up to date with your local weather forecast and weather warnings.

  Severe weather checklist

  Have a battery-operated radio

  ​Stow flashlights with extra batteries

  Winterize your home: Insulate walls and attics, Weather-strip doors and windows, Clear rain gutters

  Remove tree branches that could fall during strong winds

  Inspect your chimney or flue

  Make sure you have an adequate supply of food and water

  • Food in your fridge and freezer is usually safe to consume if the power is out for less than four hours
  • Fireplaces, wood stoves, barbecues, and camp stoves can be used outdoors for emergency cooking. DO NOT use barbecues or camp stoves indoors.

  Prepare your vehicle

  • Pack a winter survival kit with a grab and go bag, windshield scraper, extra windshield washer fluid, spare tire (wheel wrench and jack), shovel and traction mat (sand or kitty litter)
  • Make up a vehicle emergency kit: food such as energy bars, water, blanket, extra clothing and footwear, firs aid kit with seatbelt cutter, small shovel, candle in can, flashlight with extra batteries, whistle, roadmaps, copy of your emergency plan.
  • Stock with sand, salt or cat litter (non-clumping), antifreeze and windshield water fluid, tow rope, jumper cables, fire extinguisher, road flares or warning light.