Merritt under Evacuation ALERT

The City of Merritt has issued an evacuation alert for the entire community. The alert comes as the Lytton Fire continues to grow.

The alert covers the entire city of approximately 7,100. It was put in place at 7:50 p.m. Sunday (Aug. 15) evening.

There are two large fires in the vicinity of Merritt. To the west, the Lytton Creek wildfire has been burning east towards Merritt. To the southwest, the July Mountain wildfire has been burning towards the city.

The alert is a cruel blow to many evacuees who have sought refuge in the community from wildfires in Ashcroft, Lytton and many other areas.

WHAT YOU SHOULD DO:
– Locate all family members and designate a meeting area outside the evacuation area,
should an Evacuation Order be called while separated.
– Pack essential items such as government‐issued ID, medications, eyeglasses, valuable papers
(e.g. insurance, credit, and mortgage information), immediate care needs for dependents
and, if time and space permits, keepsakes for quick departure.
– Prepare to move disabled persons, children and/or neighbours, if assistance is needed.
– Prepare to take pets with you and move livestock to a safe area (if possible).
– Arrange transportation for all your household members. Fill the gas tanks of personal
vehicles.
– Arrange accommodation for all members of the residence, if possible.

More to come