This summer’s wildfire outbreak has once again put the province of British Columbia in a state of emergency. There are currently about 550 active wildfires, and air quality is dangerously poor across most of B.C.
Several communities are either under evacuation orders or evacuation alerts, and the status is rapidly changing with shifting winds and fires.
Similar to last summer, HEU members in the affected regions are directly impacted in their communities and workplaces.
The union has been monitoring the situation closely, and wants to acknowledge the emergency response teams – firefighters, health care workers, community volunteers – for their tireless efforts to keep people, their pets and their homes safe.
As in past emergency evacuations, HEU members are often involved in transferring patients and redirecting their services to provide care at the receiving health facility. Should HEU members be called into action, they will be notified by their employer.
Due to the evolving nature of wildfire activity, the provincial government and regional health authorities are making ongoing decisions to help protect citizens and communities.
The best way to stay informed about any evacuations or possible hospital closures is to visit government and health authority websites.
- Interior Health Authority
- Northern Health Authority (Frequently Asked Questions for NHA employees available through your supervisor or HEU servicing rep)
- Vancouver Island Health Authority
For updates on active wildfires, visit Emergency Info BC.
For information on air quality, visit BC Air Quality.
Other contact information on wildfires: 1-888 336-7378 or visit.