With over 1,300 properties in the West and Central Kootenay region issued evacuation orders, several residents have asked the question: what if we refuse to leave?
According to Dan Seguin, Information Officer of Emergency Operation Centres with the Regional District of Central Kootenay, fines could apply, but only in certain instances.
This comes after an evacuation notice in Silverton left many residents frustrated during an information session held in Winlaw, asking what would happen if they chose to stay and protect their properties.
Seguin wants residents to understand that when an evacuation order is put in place, it’s done to ensure the safety of residents and first responders.
When individuals choose to stay, Seguin said they’re taking a risk with their own safety.
From his knowledge, there has yet to be a situation where an evacuated resident in the region has refused to leave, but Seguin said if it does happen, they could end up being fined, but not for staying.
“This is important to understand. It’s not about them making a choice to stay. The fines can apply when an individual breaches a security checkpoint that prevents people from entering the evacuation order areas for their safety and responders’ safety. If they do that, that’s the point where fines could apply, but it’s not about making a choice to stay.”
That said, if people make an initial choice to stay but need to leave the evacuated area, they will not be allowed to return, and if they do, there is a possibility of fines being applied by the RCMP.
The Regional District of Central Kootenay has enacted a State of Local Emergency for Electoral Areas H and D due to wildfire activity.
According to the BC Emergency Management Act, those who contravene instructions issued while in a State of Local Emergency could face up to $10,000 in fines, or up to one year in prison.
As of Monday, over 1,300 properties in the Central Kootenay have been evacuated, with 723 under evacuation alerts.
Where to find information
The BC Wildfire Service is the primary source of information for all wildfire activity.
Regional District Central Kootenay (RDCK) is the primary source of information for evacuation orders and evacuation alerts.
Drive BC for all information on roads and road closures.
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