Residents are invited to share emergency evacuation insights
Seeking public input to better understand how people would respond during an evacuation
Residents of Peachland, West Kelowna, Westbank First Nation, Kelowna, Lake Country, and the Electoral Areas East and West of the Regional District of Central Okanagan are invited to provide feedback on the Regional Evacuation Route Planning Initiative.
As part of the Central Okanagan Regional Evacuation Route Planning Initiative, the Regional Emergency Program is asking for public input to better understand how people would respond during an evacuation and where they would go. This feedback is essential to building a safer, more coordinated response when emergencies happen.
“We’re working to make the evacuation process more streamlined, coordinated and safe for everyone in the Central Okanagan,” said Brittany Seibert, Regional Emergency Manager. “Public input is essential to support the planning efforts that reflect local knowledge and circumstances, including considerations for areas with livestock or individuals with specific mobility requirements.”
Emergencies can happen quickly. Knowing how residents are likely to respond helps emergency teams:
- Define evacuation zones and timing
- Identify safe and efficient routes, supported by traffic control points
- Enhancing the Emergency Operations Centre’s ability to set timely trigger points
- Improve public awareness and readiness
Input from communities will be combined with technical insights from first responders, emergency experts and transportation modelling data.
How to get involved
Residents are invited to visit YourSay.RDCO.com and:
- Take the online survey
- Request a printed survey for pick up from your local government office
- Ask a question
Residents who require a printed copy can contact communications@rdco.com or call 250-469-6193. The survey closes at the end of the day on Monday, August 4.
Residents who complete the survey can enter to win one of four $50 Visa Gift Cards. The draw will take place no later than August 8.
Learn more and complete a survey at YourSay.RDCO.com.
About the Regional Emergency Program
The Regional District of Central Okanagan Regional Emergency Program is coordinated by the City of Kelowna Fire Department on behalf of the Regional District, the City of Kelowna, the City of West Kelowna, District of Lake Country, District of Peachland and Westbank First Nation.
