B.C. Declares Provincial State of Emergency Amid Escalating Wildfire Crisis
PABC encourages all residents to stay connected with local news, emergency services, and authoritative sources for updates and instructions. By working together and adhering to official guidance, British Columbia can overcome this crisis and emerge stronger as a community. We wish to alert Members to funding for HSA Members as detailed below.
In response to the escalating wildfire crisis that has gripped the province, British Columbia has declared a Provincial State of Emergency, setting in motion an all-hands-on-deck effort to combat the raging wildfires and ensure the safety of its residents. The declaration comes as a result of the rapidly spreading fires, exacerbated by dry conditions and gusty winds that have created an unprecedented threat to communities across the province.
This Emergency Order has been put into place to restrict non-essential use of temporary accommodations, encompassing hotels, motels, inns, bed and breakfasts, hostels, RV parks, and campgrounds, in the following Okanagan cities:
- Kelowna & West Kelowna
- Kamloops
- Oliver
- Osoyoos
- Penticton
- Vernon
These travel restrictions have been enacted to guarantee access to accommodations for evacuees and essential personnel involved in providing emergency and critical services. The Emergency Order is set to remain in effect until the end of the day on September 4, 2023.
The Physiotherapy Association of British Columbia (PABC) stands in solidarity with all residents affected by the wildfires and extends its support to those experiencing displacement and distress due to this natural disaster. As the fires continue to pose a significant threat to the province's landscape and communities, the safety and well-being of the people remain the utmost priority.
Evacuation information and resources can be found at EmergencyInfoBC.ca, providing guidance on evacuation routes, emergency shelters, and necessary precautions to take during this critical time. It is essential for residents to stay informed and heed the guidance of local authorities to ensure their safety and that of their loved ones.
For those seeking information regarding wildfire response efforts, the BC Wildfire Service provides up-to-date information at BCWildfire.ca. The website offers valuable insights into firefighting strategies, current fire statuses, and measures being taken to control and mitigate the wildfire threat.
Amidst this crisis, the Health Sciences Association (HSA) has taken an active role in supporting its members affected by evacuation orders. The Board of Directors of HSA has established a $20,000 emergency relief fund, which offers $500 per household to members for immediate relief, aiding with unanticipated expenses arising from evacuation orders. To apply for this financial support, members can complete the necessary forms and return them to HSA at info@hsabc.org. Applications will be processed urgently to expedite assistance.
HSA also underscores the importance of safety during these trying times. Members are urged to prioritize the well-being of themselves and their families. If under evacuation orders, personal safety is paramount, and members are advised to take necessary precautions to ensure their security.
HSA members facing challenges related to work and employment during the wildfire crisis are encouraged to be aware of their obligations and rights. Employers have the right to reassign staff to different locations, alter working hours, and even modify job roles, provided the employees are qualified and physically capable of performing the tasks. HSA remains a resource for members seeking guidance on their rights and obligations during natural disasters. Contact information for HSA assistance is as follows:
- Outside Lower Mainland – toll-free: 1-800-663-2917
- Lower Mainland: 604-517-0994
- Email: info@hsabc.org
PABC encourages all residents to stay connected with local news, emergency services, and authoritative sources for updates and instructions. By working together and adhering to official guidance, British Columbia can overcome this crisis and emerge stronger as a community.
During these challenging times, we urge individuals to prioritize their health and safety.