As fire rages in and around Fort McMurray, New Westminster firefighters are waiting for word from the provincial firefighters’ association on how to help evacuees.
Firefighter Glen Bailey said the New Westminster Firefighters’ Charitable Society has been fielding a lot of questions regarding the Fort McMurray fire recently, especially with respect to donations and assistance.
“We’ve had a lot of people contacting us about the tragic events in Fort Mac. At this time our charitable (society) is not actively doing anything to assist. We are following the advice from our provincial governing body, the B.C. provincial firefighters,” he said.
Bailey said B.C.’s professional firefighters’ association is trying to decide what it should do for those in Fort McMurray. If and when the union makes a decision, New Westminster will let residents know how they can help.
“If (the union) recommends we don’t do something, we’ll make a donation then,” Bailey added.
In the meantime, residents can make donations to the Red Cross, and both the federal government and the Alberta provincial government will match donations, so $1 becomes $3. Safeways and B.C. Liquor Stores are also collecting donations on behalf of the Red Cross.
It’s believed the Fort McMurray fire has destroyed an estimated 2,400 structures in the city and covers an area of more than 2,000 square kilometres.
How you can help:
The Red Cross is the primary group helping fire victims.Red Cross is helping with emergency food, clothing, shelter, personal services and basic necessities. To donate, visit www.redcross.ca or call 1-800-418-1111.
The Salvation Army is serving daily meals to first respondersin Fort McMurray and passing out water, food and hygiene kits. Thrift stores are passing out clothes to fire victims. Call 1-800-SAL-ARMY, or text a $10 donation to FORTMAC to 45678.
