The profound effects of climate change have B.C. facing 'near constant emergencies,' says the premier.
KAMLOOPS, B.C. — British Columbia will form an expert disaster task force providing rapid response and support for people and communities facing climate emergencies amid a historic wildfire season that has destroyed about 400 structures, mostly homes, said Premier David Eby.
Hundreds of properties have been lost, thousands of people have been forced to evacuate their homes and two young firefighters have died on duty this summer as the worst wildfire season in the province's history continues, said Eby. The task force will provide advice on volunteer recruitment, work with First Nations and front-line workers and ensure support for evacuees is more accessible, he said.
Federal Emergency Preparedness Minister Harjit Sajjan said last week he has been speaking with local and provincial officials about developing a federal disaster response plan that could include a national firefighting force. "I get that," he said. "I totally do, and I have huge empathy for that particular dilemma. I can't imagine what it's like to face that choice."
The Rasmussens, who live in separate but nearby homes in Celista, spoke with Eby for several minutes Monday at Salmon Arm. Wade Rasmussen was wearing a yellow T-shirt that said "Bush Creek 2023," with characters depicting the "BC Wildfire Service" running away and "locals" fighting a blaze with a firehouse.