Communique

As of today, 14 First Nations communities in BC are under evacuation order or alert. The evacuation of Williams Lake and surrounding areas last night has displaced many First Nations people, and whole communities, to Kamloops, Prince George and beyond.

Additional Evacuation Centres are opening up

It is estimated that 37,000 people have left their homes under evacuation order or alert. Evacuation reception centres and emergency social services are now set up at 11 sites across the province (see appendix). Reception Centres provide immediate assistance with accommodations, food, and medical or prescription support. First Nations under evacuation order are encouraged to register with one of these Centres as soon as possible.

Health Services for First Nations

Patient relocations

A number of Interior Health operated hospitals and health centres have been evacuated, mainly Williams Lake, Ashcroft, and Clearwater. Interior Health Authority staff has been busy relocating patients from evacuated hospitals and getting them settled and comfortable in Kamloops and other care sites. If you have questions about relocations Interior Health Quality Care Office has established a central line (1.877.442.2001) to connect evacuees and families.

Nursing Services in Prince George and Kamloops

FNHA is working to identify a number of First Nations individuals who have been evacuated and require regular home care, we'd like to be in touch to ensure that our clients receive the follow-up care and support that they need. If you or a family member is in need of follow up care in Kamloops please call Pam Crema (236-993-7742) and in Prince George Tammy Rogers (778-349-4278).

FNHA and Fraser Health are making arrangements to provide primary care supports to Elders who are returning from the BC Elders gathering and remain in the lower mainland. For nursing services in the lower mainland please call Garry Eugene (604 414 5320).

Nursing Services in Evacuation Zones

Our prayers are with those communities who have made the difficult decision to remain home and protect their communities. Due to occupational health and safety regulations, FNHA is unable to deploy nursing services into communities that are under evacuation order. We are working with our provincial counterparts to identify alternative options for emergency medical services.

Medication Drop

The first aerial medication drop for First Nations took place tonight. More drops are planned in the coming days through coordination with FNHA and Emergency Management BC.

Stay Up To Date

Our FNHA wildfire information page (fnha.ca/wildfires) is the main source for FNHA updates on the wildfire situation, current evacuation zones, road closures, emergency phone lines and other crucial emergency services. We will continue to monitor the situation closely and provide updates as needed

Emergency Social Services reception centres

Please note: Call the Red Cross at 1-800-863-6583  to confirm availability.

Group Lodging facilities are available in Kamloops, Chilliwack Vernon, Kelowna, Princeton and Prince George.