Salmon Arm Mayor Alan Harrison said he is grateful for a quieter wildfire season and residents should use the opportunity to prepare for possible emergencies.
In a video statement posted online, Harrison said it has been a difficult couple of weeks.
“The smoke has been think and soupy, making people feel anxious, stressed and concerned about what could happen.”
There have been no evacuations or major wildfires in the Shuswap.
Harrison said he contacted Summerland Mayor Doug Holmes and noted residents of the community, which is dealing with the Bald Range wildfire, said the fire’s progression went from zero to 100.
“This is not to cause anyone to feel alarmed at all,” he said. “It’s more about thinking ahead and we have space right now to think about just in case.”
Harrison advised residents to stay positive and to prepare for possible wildfires and evacuations.
“You need to think about where you’re going to go and how you’re going to get there,” Harrison noted. “If you have RVs or trailers, make sure that they are ready to go.”
Preparing a grab-and-go bag is also important, Harrison said. He recommended including water, snacks and other items people may need for more than 24 hours.
“Having those three things in place can set our minds at ease a little bit.”
Harrison encouraged residents to use this time to help others, prepare for emergencies and be grateful for the quieter wildfire season in the Shuswap.
