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   INFORMATION BULLETIN   

For Immediate Release

2009PSSG0052-000981

June 6, 2009

Ministry of Public Safety and Solicitor General

 

PROVINCE INCREASES EMERGENCY SUPPORT ACTIVITY

 


TERRACE — A provincial regional emergency operations centre has been established in Terrace to respond to the flood risk from rising water levels on the Nass River, Skeena River, Kitsumkalum River, and other rivers and streams within these basins.

 

Trained provincial employees are staffing the centre, providing support to local government and First Nations communities in the area. Localized flooding has been reported in some areas. Water levels continue to rise and are expected to begin peaking on Monday.

 

People living in low-lying areas or near waterways should begin preparing now to reduce the impact of flooding on their homes and families, including taking the following steps:

·        Contact your local government for information on sandbags and other flood mitigation strategies.

·        Move valuable or important belongings to higher ground or remove them from the property.

·        Watch for changing conditions.

·        Prepare your personal and family emergency kit in case of evacuation.

 

The increased water levels will also affect agricultural land, and ranchers and farmers should be preparing now for possible flooding. Farm producers and operators should plan for alternative accommodation on high ground for employees and family members, as well as any livestock, equipment, machinery, perishable supplies, fuel and chemicals. Agricultural operators are reminded that they are responsible for ensuring the health and safety of their animals and are responsible for their care and feeding.

 

Information on flooding in your area is available on the Provincial Emergency Program’s Web site, www.pep.bc.ca

 

Volunteers are required for both sandbagging efforts and to volunteer at the Emergency

Reception Centre in Terrace. To volunteer, call the Regional District of Kitimat-Stikine at 250 615-6100 or the City of Terrace at 250 638-4711.

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Media

contact:

Angie Poss

Information Officer

250 615-4822

 

For more information on government services or to subscribe to the Province’s news feeds using RSS, visit the Province’s website at www.gov.bc.ca.