Devastating wildfires continue to rage in northern Saskatchewan, displacing thousands of people in communities including La Ronge, Air Ronge, Creighton, and Flin Flon. Weyburn has become a refuge for some of those displaced, welcoming approximately 80 evacuees.
From day one, people in Weyburn have inquired about how to assist those affected by the wildfires. A release sent by the city of Weyburn outlines the appropriate way to show support as through financial donations to organizations like the Canadian Red Cross, this ensures help is being delivered where it is most needed. Local donations are not being accepted at this time.
They also emphasize that emergency response and coordination is managed by the Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency (SPSA). However, the city’s Emergency Measures Organization is meeting regularly to determine how they can best assist under the guidance of the SPSA.
Mayor Jeff Richards offers his sympathy to those affected by the wildfires and expresses confidence in the people of Weyburn to be generous hosts.
“It goes without saying, Weyburn is a proud community. We have a great history of giving and support, and our community spirit is high. We're happy to help where we can. We feel particularly bad, obviously, for folks who have been put out of their homes due to those wildfires in the north.”
“I know I know the people of Weyburn and I know that we're gracious people and will be gracious hosts.”
The SPSA determines all evacuation centres in the province and provide options to evacuees, as participation in evaluation assistance is not mandatory, unless mandatory orders are given. Those relocated to Weyburn have been provided basic needs including shelter, clothing, and other essentials by the SPSA.
The city has connected those we are hosting to local supports and amenities under the guidance of the SPSA.
At this time, it is uncertain when the evacuees will be able to return to their communities. Until then residents of Weyburn are asked to be kind and gracious hosts, alongside being mindful of the privacy and personal space of evacuees.
“In the meantime, I know the people of Weyburn and I know that the people of Weyburn will be gracious hosts. When we see people we don't know on the street, we smile at them and say, ‘how are you?’ Or maybe you'll see somebody in a coffee shop, and you talk to them and let them know that you're here to help, that Weyburn is here to help, and that we feel awful about what's happening up north and we sure hope they can get back to their communities.”
It is also asked that all residents rely only on official channels for information and refrain from sharing unverified or secondhand updates. These channels include the SPSA website and Facebook page, the Saskatchewan Health Authority, Metis Nation Saskatchewan, the City of Weyburn, and the Weyburn Police Service.