The Okanagan Indian Band under an evacuation alert during the White Rock Lake wildfire in 2021. (Vernon Matters file photo)

By Liam Verster

Emergency Operations Aid

Disaster supports rolling out to assist OKIB, other First Nations and local governments

Apr 18, 2024 | 5:00 PM

Some local municipalities and First Nations, including some in the Okanagan, are benefiting from an investment in local-disaster response.

The province is providing approximately $2.7-million for emergency-preparedness initiatives for roughly 100 communities throughout B.C.

Included in that investment is $30,000 for a mobile emergency operations centre for the Okanagan Indian Band (OKIB).

“As we move into the wildfire season, we know that many communities may need to activate their emergency operations centres (EOC) to respond and support people in their areas,” Bowinn Ma, Minister of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness, stated.

“Local emergency operations centres are crucial for co-ordinating emergency response to keep people safe. This funding will help communities support responders on the ground and better protect people in emergency situations.”

Five things to know about the NHL playoffs

4h ago

London Drugs phone lines working, stores

London Drugs phone lines working, stores still closed

12h ago

Chamber of Commerce

Province provides boost to local businesses

13h ago

There was no funding provided to any of the major hubs in the Interior, including Vernon, Kelowna, Salmon Arm or Kamloops, though some other nearby communities are benefiting from the funds.

Chase will receive $15,000 to purchase an EOC generator, Penticton will get a grant of $29,050 for 2024 EOC equipment and training, Revelstoke will receive $17,000 for EOC exercise training, and Golden will be able to purchase radios and 72-hour kits thanks to a grant of $28,623.26.

The money is coming through the Community Emergency Preparedness Fund, has distributed approximately $217-million to support more than 1,970 projects led by communities and First Nations throughout B.C. since it was established in 2017.