The Regional District of East Kootenay said it’s important to remain prepared for flooding, even as the risk has reduced to a high streamflow advisory.
Christina Carbrey, RDEK protective services manager, said property owners have to make sure their home and property are protected against disaster.
“Emergency preparedness throughout the region is everyone’s responsibility. Primary responsibility for the protection of property lies with the property owner,” said Carbrey.
Carbrey explained that clearing any culverts, drains and gutters and making sure they drain away from your house can help reduce flooding risk; as well, Carbrey noted that you should test any sump pumps to make sure they work.
She added that it’s also important to review your homeowner’s insurance to see if you are covered in the case of a flood.
The RDEK has resources available to help you get ready for any possible flooding.
“We really encourage residents to utilize our sandbag stations we have set up throughout the region,” said Carbrey. “We have five stations set up currently, and if there was anywhere in particular that was a concern for us, we would set up additional sandbags.”
Sandbag stations have been set up at the following locations:
- Fairmont Hot Springs Road – behind the old barn at Mountainside Golf Course.
- Windermere Fire Hall – 1635 Highway 93/95
- Elk River Inn in Hosmer – Highway 3 at 6th Avenue (in the lot south of the pub)
- Cranbrook’s Public Works Yard – Cobham Avenue
- This list will be updated if more locations are opened.
That said, conditions have improved, but water levels remain high.
“If people are around bodies of water, we definitely encourage them to be very careful,” said Carbrey. “When the water comes up, it can cause bank erosion. At the moment, we’re in pretty good shape here, but we’re definitely watching closely. The weather can change pretty rapidly.”
RDEK officials said you can also sign up for the regional Evacuation Notification System, which will notify you if your area is under an evacuation alert or order
Resources and a signup page for the regional Evacuation Notification System can be found below.
