PREMIER David Eby, after speaking in Penticton with evacuees, local leaders and emergency personnel responding to wildfires on Wednesday, said in a statement: “Today, I met with people whose lives have been turned upside down by these wildfires.
“I listened to families forced to leave their homes with little warning. I heard from people waiting anxiously for news about whether they have anything left to return to. And I spoke with business owners worried about their employees and their future.
“I also met with local mayors, First Nations leadership, firefighters, emergency personnel and community organizations helping people through an incredibly difficult time. The message I heard was clear: These have been devastating days, but people are facing them with strength, determination and a deep commitment to supporting their neighbours.
“To everyone who has been evacuated, who is under alert, who has lost property or who is living with uncertainty right now: know that you are not facing this alone. Our entire province stands with you. We are incredibly grateful to the people on the front lines whose heroic efforts are protecting communities and saving lives, including those who have come from around the world to help.
“A special thank you to the people supporting this effort in so many different ways: the volunteers staffing reception centres, the hotel operators making room for evacuees, the businesses donating supplies and meals, and the families opening their homes to friends and neighbours, and complete strangers. Your kindness is making a real difference.
“Many people also spoke to me about the challenges that come with being evacuated so suddenly, finding a place to stay, replacing essential items and navigating an uncertain situation.
“We know that during the peak of evacuations in Summerland this weekend, some evacuees experienced delays accessing Emergency Support Services. To improve response times, we have increased staffing on the B.C. Evacuee Helpline by more than 400%, deployed additional staff to the region and are continuing to secure accommodation throughout the Okanagan. Emergency Support Services can help evacuees with basic needs, such as accommodation, food and other essentials.
“If you need help, contact your local reception centre, visit www.ESS.gov.bc.ca (https://www.ESS.gov.bc.ca), or call the B.C. Evacuee Helpline at 1-800-387-4258. We know this is an incredibly stressful time, and our focus is making sure people can access support as quickly and easily as possible.
“Our priority is supporting evacuees, protecting people and ensuring the BC Wildfire Service, front-line firefighters and emergency responders have the resources they need. We will continue working closely with local governments, First Nations and communities to get help where it is needed.
“There are challenging days ahead. But what I’ve seen here today is the very best of British Columbia – people looking after one another when it matters most. We will continue to stand with you through this emergency and through the recovery ahead.”
