Wildfire Precautions

The Province of BC has declared a Provincial State of Emergency due to the wildfire situation. The Province of Alberta is monitoring numerous wildfires for threats to safety, as well as preparing to receive wildfire evacuees from the NWT. 

Given the extreme risk of wildfires, members of the Jamat, especially those who may temporarily or permanently be in wildfire-prone areas, are encouraged to closely monitor official sources of information for alerts and warnings. Please visit the BC Wildfire Service map, the Alberta Wildfire Status Dashboard, or follow the British Columbia and Alberta authorities on Facebook.

Those who are planning travel, especially to the interior of BC or Vancouver Island, are encouraged to check BC Highway Closures before departing, and to avoid roads which may be heavily trafficked in the event of an evacuation. (Note: as of today, Highway 1 is closed in two locations, as well as Highway 97). 

Wildfires can strike at any time, especially in the current hot, dry conditions. Review this Wildfire Preparedness Plan to know how to be ready in case you need to respond to a quickly-spreading wildfire.

Smoke from wildires can also pose health risks, especially to higher-risk groups including older adults, children, those with heart or lung disease, and those who are pregnant. Visit the Wildfire Smoke and Your Health site to learn more about how to help protect yourself from smoke particles.

If you need assistance or support, please contact the Access line or your local Mukhi Kamadia/Mukhiani Kamadiani.

We pray for the health and security of all those who are impacted by the current wildfires.

Update: 

On August 19, 2023, the Province of BC issued an Emergency Order restricting non-essential use of temporary accommodations, including hotels, motels, inns, bed and breakfasts, hostels, RV parks, and campgrounds, in these Okanagan cities:

• Kelowna & West Kelowna
• Kamloops
• Oliver
• Osoyoos
• Penticton
• Vernon

These restrictions will support access to accommodations for evacuees and personnel providing emergency and critical services. This Order will remain in effect until end of day September 4, 2023.