Firesmart Cleanup Pick Up Scheduled for the Morning of May 4thand a BBQ Later That Afternoon!
Since 2003, devastating fires in the Okanagan Valley and throughout our province have become a harsh reality. We know it can also easily happen in our neighbourhood, but through your efforts and those of your neighbours, we can make Quail Ridge a safer, FireSmart residential community.
A newsletter will be delivered through the Postal Service in April providing details on how you can make a difference by participating in our Spring Community FireSmart Cleanup.
By taking simple steps in making the “ignition zone” around your home a deterrent to wildfire, you protect your home as well that of your neighbours. Ideally, you will do so by removing combustible materials and non FireSmart vegetation (cedars, junipers and tall grasses) as part of our community cleanup.
Putting your fire risk material on your driveway for the morning of May 4th will allow us enough time to pick it up, bring to the landfill and then celebrate with you at our FireSmart Community BBQ later in the afternoon.
The BBQ will be open to all and will be held at the Works Yard of the Okanagan Golf Club. We look forward to celebrating with you - our official recognition of this year's and last year’s FireSmart Cleanup days!
Security Alerts...and a Potential Volunteer Opportunity
Theft continues in our community. Further to last month's report about security issues in the area, another report has come in, this time about the vandalism of parked vehicles in the Quail Place vicinity. As well, there were two separate incidents at The Pointe on Via Centrale: a break-in and a car stolen from the underground garage.
Be vigilant and lock up. If you are away for an extended period of time, have someone watch your home. Have your snow cleared so your home does not attract unwanted attention while it is vacant.
Report all incidents to the police. By reporting these incidents, the RCMP is better able to identify issues and direct resources. As well, concerned QRRA members could consider volunteering to support the RCMP's efforts by joining a Citizens Patrol.
Volunteers are trained and assist police by patrolling designated areas to observe and report any suspected criminal activity. As the City of Kelowna's website states:
“By being an extra set of trained "eyes and ears," the patrol is able to assist in the deterrence of crime in the community. The patrol is not designed to replace regular police patrols, rather, allows the police an opportunity to direct their focus on higher priority areas.
For more information contact Kevin MacDougall, Community Policing Coordinator at 250-765-6355.”
Nominate a Snow Angel
The City of Kelowna has a wonderful program for citizens to say thank you. As the City of Kelowna's website states:
“Is there a Snow Angel in your neighbourhood? You know, that neighbour who braves the cold on the snowiest of days and heads out with their shovel or snowblower and clears driveways and sidewalks throughout the neighbourhood. These individuals are doing a kind service to the community and we can help you acknowledge them!”
Say thank you by letting the City know that you have a snow angel in your neighbourhood. Snow angels receive a special “snow angel” toque, a letter of appreciation and get entered into a monthly draw to win a set of Kelowna Rockets tickets and pre-game dinner at Manhattan Point Restaurant.
Regional District Spring Events and Activities
The Regional District of the Central Okanagan has announced its upcoming activities and events for Spring. Take some time and explore the Regional District's website for this and other interesting programs and services.
Take A Survey: Help the City Improve Service
Let the City of Kelowna know how it can improve its service request portal. Take a 5-10 minute survey to let your ideas be known.