Thousands of people are now fleeing wildfires in the northern part of Saskatchewan, and there are fires burning in Manitoba and Alberta, as well. The Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency (SPSA) announced a hotline (1-855-559-5502) yesterday that anyone can call for information about the current fires, as well as to volunteer any resources that might help, including time, equipment, services, or a place for evacuees to stay.
"1-855-559-5502 is the SPSA toll-free line that they've set up, specific for the challenge that we have here today," Premier Scott Moe explained during an SPSA news conference yesterday. "Thank you to all the northern community leaders, chiefs, mayors, everyone that's working on the front lines, defending their community. And for all those that are supporting those that are on the front lines and supporting those that are facing this extremely challenging time that Saskatchewan is going through, thank you."
Another way to help is through donations to the Canadian Red Cross. The link to donate is give.redcross.ca/page/25SWA-MWF. Donations are being matched by the Governments of Saskatchewan and of Canada, turning each $1 donation into $3.
Officials at Monday’s wildfire press conference emphasized that what evacuees may need most right now is patience, understanding, and dignity.
“People are coming from very stressful situations, experiencing a high level of anxiety,” said Saskatchewan Rivers MLA Eric Schmalz, speaking on behalf of First Nations partners and evacuee support efforts. “Having to flee, you know, basically a fire chasing them out of their homes. ... I would just
say that the biggest thing that you can exercise to show people is patience and care and concern for their well-being.
“If you want to give something tangible, talk to local organizers. Find out what’s needed, because every community is responding in their own way.”
The SPSA is building a list of volunteers and contractors who may be able to help in the coming days and weeks as needs evolve.
“We’re collecting that information now,” said SPSA President and Fire Commissioner Marlo Pritchard. “Whether it’s equipment, services, or just people willing to volunteer their time, we want to hear from you. We’re still in the middle of this. Needs change fast, and every bit of preparation helps.”
Anyone who wants to help can call the SPSA’s toll-free line at 1-855-559-5502. This number can also be used to report fire-related emergencies or get reliable updates about public safety operations.
Communities across the province are opening to help evacuees in any way they can. Moose Jaw residents with spare bedrooms or empty suites may want to reach out to friends or extended family in the north. And for those who don’t know anyone directly affected, the message from provincial officials is clear: Be ready to help, and be kind to those arriving.
“These aren’t just guests,” said Schmalz. “These are people who may have lost everything."
The evacuation registration website is at app.saskecs.ca, and daily updates are being provided at www.saskpublicsafety.ca. For up-to-date visuals on fire status and how the smoke is blowing, go to firesmoke.ca.