Forest fires in Northern Quebec: 250 residents from the village of Eastmain preventatively evacuated by the Red Cross

June 29, 2013 – Since yesterday morning, a team of volunteer responders from the Canadian Red Cross, Quebec Zone, have been supporting the people evacuated from the Eastmain Cree reserve in Northern Quebec.

Those who are vulnerable are being evacuated preventatively because there is smoke everywhere in the community. Therefore, pregnant women, seniors, young children and people with chronic diseases are being evacuated.

Roughly 250 residents are being directed to the municipality of Val-d’Or, where Red Cross volunteers greet them and ensure that their critical needs are met.

As part of this operation, the Red Cross is working closely with Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada, Quebec Zone, the municipality of Val-d’Or and other local partners.