With the potential for seasonal spring flooding, the RDEK is encouraging residents in flood prone areas to take steps now to protect their homes and properties if they feel they may be at risk.
“One of the challenges for people can be where to get sand or sandbags. To help make that easier, the RDEK has established several self-fill sandbagging stations around the region,” explains Emergency Services Coordinator Melody Munro. “The stations will have pallets of empty sandbags and sand so people can fill as many bags as they feel they need.”
The public will have to bring their own shovels, ties and other supplies necessary to fill the bags and transport them. The bags should only be filled half full as they become hard to lift and place. Information on sandbagging (attached) can be located on EMBC’s website at: http://www.embc.gov.bc.ca/em/floods/index.html
Central Subregion
- City of Cranbrook Gravel Pit – Cobham Avenue (works yard is 201 Cobham Ave) (NOTE: this station will be set up by Friday afternoon)
- Wasa Community Hall – 6145 Wasa School Road(NOTE: this station will be set up by Friday afternoon)
- Centennial Hall/Kimberley – 100-4th Ave Kimberley(NOTE: this station will be set up by Friday afternoon)
Elk Valley/South Country
- Hosmer Pub – 2360 Highway 3
- Jaffray Community Hall – Jaffray Village Loop Road
- Public can also access bags at Fernie and Sparwood City Works Yards
Columbia Valley
- Fairmont – corner of Fairmont Springs Drive and Fairway Drive
- Windermere Fire Hall – 1627 Highway 93/95
Anyone with questions can contact Munro at the RDEK office in Cranbrook or mmunro@rdek.bc.ca
Phone: 250-489-2791 or toll free 1-888-478-7335 (BC/AB)
Wendy Booth, Director Area F, Regional District of East Kootenay 