Lightning is causing several wildfires to spark throughout the Cariboo region – faster than they can be written down, the Cariboo Fire District says.
RELATED: Crews battling wildfire northeast of Williams Lake
In a Facebook post, the district is reminding residents to follow orders if and when an evacuation order is issued.
An evacuation order has been issued near 100 Mile House, effecting more than 1,800 properties.
UPDATE: The entire Cariboo Regional District has been hit by lightning in a multitude of places. Fires are being...
Posted by Cariboo Regional District Emergency Operations Centre on Friday, July 7, 2017
To prepare for an evacuation:
- You will need to prepare to leave your home on very short notice.
- Stay tuned to your local authority’s public information channels, as well as Emergency Info BC for updates.
- Have your emergency kit and important documents ready to go, which should include things like insurance and personal papers such as birth certificates.
- Several days’ clothing
- Medicine/prescriptions
- Consider your pets and get leashes, carriers and pet food ready to go.
- Also consider the kids and bring some comfort items, like a favourite toy or colouring books to help keep them busy.
- Don’t forget to check in on family, friends and neighbours who may have mobility or other issues to contend with.
- This is a good time to collect precious photos and mementos that can’t be replaced.
What to do when you’ve been evacuated:
- You must leave the area immediately
- Close all windows and doors
- Shut off all gas and electrical appliances, other than refrigerators and freezers
- Close gates (latch) but do not lock
- Gather your family: take a neighbour or someone who needs help
- Take critical items (medicine, purse, wallet, and Keys) only if they are immediately
- available. Take pets in pet kennels or on leash
- Do not use more vehicles then you have to
- Do not use the telephone unless you need emergency service