Anarchist Mountain Community Society

Are you prepared for winter driving and what to do if you become stranded?

Rapid changes in elevation and weather can make highway conditions in B.C. unpredictable during the winter. Most B.C. highways have high mountain passes where you are likely to encounter winter weather starting in October. You may start a trip in sunshine but face stretches of slush, ice, heavy snowfall, compact snow or avalanches along the way.

It is the responsibility of the operator of any vehicle to understand the conditions on the roads they regularly drive and equip their vehicle for those conditions to ensure their own safety and the safety of others. DriveBC is an excellent source for highway conditions and weather forecasts.

The best way to stay safe under extreme conditions is to avoid driving until the weather improves. If you do drive, make sure your vehicle is winter ready, always carry an emergency kit and have clothing available that is appropriate for the weather.

Learn

• Shift into Winter is a comprehensive guide to winter driving in B.C.
• Travelling in an Avalanche Area

Be Seen

It is difficult to see other vehicles during dark or foggy, wintry days.

• Daytime running lights are dimmer than headlights.
• Taillights do not turn on with your daytime running lights.
  • Make sure to turn your vehicle lights all the way on – headlights and taillights.
• Taillights are an important part of being seen from behind, especially in winter when days are shorter and rain, fog and grey days are common.
• The visual cue of the interior dash lights does not always mean your headlights and taillights are on.

Source: Government of BC

Be Prepared

There are many emergency preparedness kits, if you want one ready-to-go. Take advantage of Black Friday sales if you are looking for a kit or supplies to make up your own. Examples

Bear with us as we update and add in new info to the AMCS website, so check back often.

In the New Year, we will have even more for you!

This is a common question on the Mountain.

AMFD reminds us to make sure you complete a RDOS Burn Authorization Application online. There is no fee, and no permit will be issued. Your request will be directed to the AMFD Fire Chief, and it will be assumed that you have read and will abide by the terms of the RDOS bylaw regarding open burning (Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen Bylaw No. 2898, 2020)

Next, call to check and see if burning is permitted in the fire district, based on the Venting Index, or

Save this number in your phone for quick access: 250-490-4125

Why is Venting Index so important?

The Venting Index is a numerical value related to the potential of the atmosphere to disperse smoke and other pollutants. It is based on both the current wind speed in the mixed layer and the mixing height.

The mixed layer is the surface layer of air that is turbulent and well mixed. The mixing height is the thickness (sometimes zero) of this mixed layer.

Adequate venting is required to disperse the smoke generated by open burning. If there is not adequate venting, the smoke settles over the area it originates from.

The Okanagan Valley and Similkameen Valley often experience weather systems called inversions. An inversion makes the airshed susceptible to the build up of air contaminants that impact human health, visibility, and the environment.

Handmade boat-shaped shelving unit with 4 shelves which are 12″ apart.

Dimensions:  75″ high x 25″wide x 12″ deep 

Asking $250 or OBO

Contact: 250-999-1791