The province-wide State of Emergency continues as wildfires continue to burn, according to Forests Minister John Rustad.
All available resources have been called into assist with Emergency Management BC, but the unfavourable weather forecasts and aggressive fires are making it difficult for firefighters to combat the flames.
In evacuated areas, local gov't will be coordinating reception centres and emergency operation centres #bcwildfires
— My Prince George Now (@mypgnow) July 8, 2017
When asked if any of the fires are under control, Rustad simply said ‘No,’ and stresses the primary focus is getting people to safety.
“It’s incredible with the level of response that we’ve had from the people in particular bringing in the various organizations we have, whether that’s BC Parks, the RCMP, the Ministry of Forests, and people in Emergency Management. All aspects across the province are working well together in coordination.”
Rustad urges respect for #FireBans. Industrial operations have also been shut down in the #Cariboo #bcwildfires
— My Prince George Now (@mypgnow) July 8, 2017
More than 3,000 homes have been evacuated across the Cariboo region and evacuees have been sent to support centres in Kamloops, Williams Lake, and Prince George.
Minister of Public Safety Mike Morris says, in this time, it’s important for everyone to follow instructions from Emergency Personnel and to remain calm.
“These folks know what they’re doing; their instruction need to be understood very clearly. Police are bringing in extra resources in from the Lower Mainland. We can bring resources in from outside of the province as well. We’ll make sure they’ve got the resources they need to do their job, and to make sure everybody gets out safely.”
EmergencyManagement BC says they're monitoring situation, will reach out to other provs, territories or federal gov't, if needed #BCwildfire
— My Prince George Now (@mypgnow) July 8, 2017
Possibility of federal military intervention if needed. Rustad says environmental conditions are not favourable, could worsen situation
— My Prince George Now (@mypgnow) July 8, 2017
An estimated 260 first responders from other provinces are expected to arrive as early as Monday morning.
Rustad says they’ve contacted the federal government, confirming it’s standing by to help.
He says, if the situation warrants, the military may be sent in to assist.
“As we continue to assess the situation, we will assess whether or not we do need to make the call to bring additional military, but at this point we’re bringing on a tremendous amount of resources to bare. We will be doing everything we can to try to get these fires under control.”
Infrastructure damage has also become significant over the last fews days, including farms and mills.
Major roads continue to be closed in most areas, with the exception of Highway 97 North from 100 Mile House to Prince George.
For more information on road closures, you can click here.
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