‘We would be ready’: Preparing a reception centre

Steinbach is prepared to set up a reception centre to aid those fleeing from wildfires.

“If we were asked, we would be ready. We’ve trained on it,” said Kel Toews, Steinbach fire chief.

The Manitoba Government declared a state of emergency on May 28 as wildfires continue to rampage in the province.

A reception centre connects evacuees with resources like shelter, food, medical care, and social services.

“Basically, a one-stop shop for evacuees and then we direct them to the right place,” said Toews, who has been the fire chief for 13 years.

The fire crew finished training on operating a reception centre about three weeks ago.

“Until we get called, we will wait,” he said.

Toews said they have a list of possible places, but the team “would make a decision at the time.”

The location for the reception centre has not been determined.

Manitoba is getting help from outside with 38 firefighters from Alberta, 87 from British Columbia, 19 from Parks Canada, 23 from New Brunswick, and two from Prince Edward Island to battle the wildfires, according to the Government of Manitoba. British Columbia also provided 500 sprinklers, and Minnesota provided two AT802 skimmers (water bomber planes) and one bird dog plane.

The South Eastman Rotary are taking donations for people displaced from the wildfires. The donation drop off is open daily from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the Southeast Event Centre. Volunteers are also needed to sort donations and transport to Winnipeg. To volunteer email rotarysoutheast@gmail.com.

The Southeast Regional Métis Sattelite Office at Centre Jean Desrosiers in St Malo is also accepting donations.