File Photo (Image Credit: CFJC Today)

By Vernon-Monashee MLA Harwinder Sandhu

Sound Off

SOUND OFF: Keeping each other safe this summer

Aug 9, 2023 | 10:01 AM

SUMMER IS IN FULL SWING across the province, and many people are enjoying summer days — whether it’s at one of British Columbia’s many beautiful lakes and rivers, on the coast by the ocean, or enjoying time in one of B.C.’s amazing towns or cities.

With the summer, though, comes the heat. This year, we are experiencing particularly challenging wildfires and drought conditions, leading to some people being on evacuation alert or having to evacuate their homes. Even though we’re more than halfway through the summer, there are still more challenges to come.

We’re grateful to all the firefighters, including hundreds from around the world that have joined our efforts, who are so courageously protecting people and communities. I also want to express my sincerest condolences to the families and loved ones of the firefighters who have lost their lives this year protecting British Columbians. While having the support of these professionals is amazing, preparedness is a team effort for all of us in B.C.

While you enjoy the summer, it’s important to take safety precautions eliminating wildfire risks and to be prepared in case of an emergency or evacuation – whether at home or while traveling.

Fire bans and restrictions are in place across B.C. To keep our province and your community safe, follow all bans and restrictions, which you can find at BCWildfire.ca.

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With drought conditions everywhere in B.C., it’s also important to stay up to date on your First Nation’s or local government’s water restrictions, and to follow them. Every drop counts.

People are encouraged to be prepared in case you are asked to evacuate your home. If you’re placed under evacuation order, you need to leave immediately. To get prepared, put together an emergency plan and pack a grab and go bag, with essentials such as food, medication and copies of important documents. Visit PreparedBC.ca or @PreparedBC on social media to learn how to get prepared, how to make an emergency plan, and what to put in your grab and go bag.

There are other steps you can take to keep your home safer from wildfires, such as clearing debris like leaves that easily catch fire, keeping your grass short, and pruning trees to two metres above the ground. It’s also important to store propane tanks at least 10 metres from your home.

Before traveling anywhere within B.C., check for evacuation alerts and evacuation orders on EmergencyInfoBC.ca, and road closures and road work on DriveBC.ca.

We know this summer has been challenging for those near wildfires, who have evacuated, or who are under evacuation alert, but we will get through this together. We hope everyone has a fun summer with friends and family, while staying safe.

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Editor’s Note: This opinion piece reflects the views of its author, and does not necessarily represent the views of CFJC Today or Pattison Media.