Manitoba RCMP say they’re seeing an uptick in calls for service in communities housing wildfire evacuees, including Portage la Prairie, Thompson and Dauphin.
About 260 people forced from their homes in northern Manitoba arrived in Portage late last week, with some later relocated to other communities.
In a written statement, an RCMP spokesperson says it’s not certain the increase is directly related to evacuees, but adds, “a large influx of a population moving into an area produces a lot of stress and anxiety for everyone.”
The spokesperson goes on to say many of the calls involve general questions that would normally be handled by several detachments.
RCMP stress it’s still too early to determine the overall impact on local resources and are asking for patience and cooperation from the public.
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