Forest Fires, 2003
The Canadian Red Cross is playing several roles in the response to the British Columbia forest fires that have driven thousands from their homes, and continue to threaten more communities.
Reconnecting Families Affected by the Fires
The Red Cross has established a registration and inquiry centre for those who have been evacuated from affected communities, and who have not registered at one of the four Reception Centres established by the provincial government. That centre also provides a vital link to reconnect families who have lost contact in this disaster. Over 2000 calls have been received in this phone centre, which is staffed by trained volunteers, and the majority of those have been enquiries from worried loved ones seeking information on evacuees.
To register as an evacuee, or to make an inquiry about an evacuee in British Columbia, call 1-888-350-6070.
Staffing Bureau
A response of this size requires enormous coordination between all the agencies that are striving to meet the needs of those affected. Red Cross is playing a crucial role behind the scenes managing a staffing bureau to look after out-of-town workers and volunteers who have come to help. The bureau receives information on ongoing needs in the field, and works to ensure the right workers with the right skills are deployed to the place they are needed most. In addition, the bureau ensures that these responders have a place to stay, transportation, and that their ongoing personal needs are met—a critical service for those who are working long, difficult days under very stressful circumstances to make a difference in the lives of those impacted by this disaster.
How to Help
To donate cash to help those impacted by the forest fires in Western Canada, click here.
