With the potential for seasonal spring flooding, the Regional District of East Kootenay (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,” explained 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 can be located on EMBC’s website at www.embc.gov.bc.ca/em/floods/index.html.
Stations have been set up at the Hosmer Pub, 2360 Highway 3, and the Jaffray Community Hall – Jaffray Village Loop Road. Bags can also be accessed at the Fernie and Sparwood city works yards.