As wildfires continue to impact communities across our region, we know the situation has become increasingly challenging for many members of our Okanagan College community. Some employees and their families have been evacuated or placed on evacuation alert, while others may be supporting family members, experiencing disruptions to travel or childcare, or managing other impacts related to the wildfires.

Your safety and the safety of your family comes first

Employees who have been evacuated, are unable to safely travel to work, or are otherwise unable to work due to wildfire-related circumstances should contact their supervisor as soon as they are able. We recognize that individual circumstances will vary, and supervisors will work with employees and People Services to determine appropriate options and supports.

Flexible workplace arrangements

Where operationally possible, employees may be able to work from an alternate location due to needs associated with the wildfire emergency. Please discuss options specific to your situation with your supervisor. OC’s Flexible Workplace Policy is available as a guideline.

Penticton Campus and community support

Okanagan College remains connected with Regional Emergency Operations Centres (EOCs) and is prepared to support the broader emergency response as needs evolve. As part of this response, the Penticton Campus will be used as a donation centre, and additional requests for use of College space may arise as the situation develops. Employees may therefore notice increased or different activity on campus in the coming days.

We will continue to share information with the OC community as plans are confirmed.

Employee and family support​

Employees and their family members can access confidential counselling and support through Okanagan College’s Employee and Family Assistance Program (EFAP).

Emergency assistance​

For employees who have been evacuated or otherwise impacted by an emergency, BC Emergency Support Services (ESS) may provide short-term assistance with essential needs such as accommodation, food, clothing and other supports.

Information about available emergency supports and how to access them is available through the Province of BC’s Emergency Support Services.

Staying informed​

For current information on wildfires, evacuation alerts and orders, and conditions across the province, employees can visit the BC Wildfire Service dashboard and are encouraged to follow updates from their local emergency operations centre.

Conditions can change quickly. Please continue to prioritize your safety, follow evacuation alerts and orders, and stay connected with your supervisor regarding any circumstances affecting your ability to work. Okanagan College will continue to monitor the situation closely and provide updates as new information becomes available.

Sincerely, 

Taryn Smith

College Human Resource Officer