Hundreds of Saskatchewan residents evacuated amid aggressive wildfire season
Global News
As wildfire season heats up, SPSA stressed that Sask. residents should use extreme caution near dry grass, when operating all-terrain vehicles or disposing of smoking material.
The Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency gave an update on the wildfire situation across the province as hundreds of people have been evacuated from their homes.
SPSA President Marlo Pritchard gave some stats on the fires, noting there were 24 active wildfires reported Thursday morning, and the province has seen 168 in total, which doubles the five-year average.
Pritchard detailed the location and number of evacuees so far:
When asked why people in northern communities weren’t being accommodated in Saskatoon, Joan Hrycyk, director of emergency crisis support said they do searches based on availability.
“Saskatoon at the time did not have the availability,” Hrycyk said.
SPSA stressed that residents should use extreme caution when near dry grass, operating all-terrain vehicles or disposing of smoking material.
Pritchard added people should be checking Highway Hotline regularly, noting highways can be shut down due to smoke and wildfires.
A toll-free number for an information line was offered for those who were evacuated and those who have questions about the provincial fire ban: 1-855-559-5502