Evacuated residents given temporary access to homes

Sep 7, 2023 | 5:00 PM Pete McIntyre

Some fire evacuees from the Westside Road area will be allowed temporary access into their evacuated areas, in order to check on their homes and retrieve important items.

“This a challenging time for residents and the EOC understands this small step may help to relieve some of the stress,” a news release from the Central Okanagan emergency operations centre stated.

The residents will have to enter from the north end of Westside Road from Vernon.

Starting Friday, September 8, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., temporary access will be provided to the following property owners:

Wilson’s Landing area:

Wilson’s Landing
Jenny Creek Road subdivision
Blue Grouse Ranch (1619 – 1731 Westside Rd N)
Westside Place
Properties along Westside Road starting from 1619 Westside Rd N to 2411 Westside Rd N (including Camp Owaissi)

Cinnabar Creek area:

3895 Westside Rd N to 3523 Westside Rd N (including Denison Road)

Drivers are asked to reduce speed on Westside Road and watch for hazards on the road.

“Traffic control measures will be in place to protect BC Hydro crews working along Westside Road and could result in delays. Please be patient. Crews are working around the clock to repair infrastructure to return people home as soon as possible,” the EOC said.

Checkpoint requirements

Residents will be directed to enter and leave through a designated RCMP checkpoint adjacent to Cinnabar Creek. At the checkpoint, they will be required to:

Show their government issued photo identification to confirm they live in the area.
Present a property tax notice or utility documentation if the property is a recreation or secondary property.
Travel directly to and from their home, following the direction of RCMP and utility flaggers working on road.
Refrain from taking pictures of other homes.
Sign and agree to a waiver and a release of liability.

The RCMP will be patrolling the area and if these guidelines are not followed, access will be revoked. Keep visits to immediate family only and it is recommended attending residents be 19 years or older.

Temporary access do’s and don’ts

What is permitted during the temporary access visit:

Drive directly to your property and directly back out through the same checkpoint.
Collect documents, medication or other personal items.
Change irrigation settings.
Pick up gear, clothes, tools, equipment or a vehicle.
Check on house and contents.

What is not permitted:

Bring friends or family members with you – only property owners are permitted.
Visit a house that has been lost in the wildfire if a fire inspection has not been conducted.
Use shower, bathroom or laundry facilities (water and power may not be available).
Clean out fridge or freezer.
Sightsee in the neighbourhood or stop to take pictures for friends and family.
Walk around the neighbourhood or enter a neighbour’s property.
Sift through or search fire damaged structures or burned areas.