As wildfires erupt across British Columbia and other parts of Canada, our union is committed to supporting you and your family during this extremely difficult time.
The health and well-being of yourself and your family is the top priority. Should an evacuation order occur, please take the necessary steps to keep you and your loved ones safe. If you have any concerns about how that will affect your work, you can contact your job steward once you have reached a safe place. We will be in communication with your employer during these situations and will update you accordingly.
The wildfires are also contributing to poor air quality. We urge you to be vigilant in protecting yourself from the harmful effects, as well as be proactive in reporting to the appropriate party if you are suffering from any ill effects.
Information on Wildfires and Evacuation Orders
The BC government’s Wildfire Service website contains critical information and resources related to current wildfires and fire bans. We encourage you to download the official BC Wildfire Service mobile app for free in the App Store and Google Play.
You can find information provincial emergencies, including evacuation alerts, by visiting the EmergencyInfoBC website.
Protecting Your Health
People with heart or lung disease, asthma, older adults, and children are more likely to be affected by wildfire smoke, so it is especially important for them to stay vigilant.
To keep yourself and your loved ones safe, try to limit your exposure to poor air quality by avoiding outdoor exercise, keeping windows and doors closed, and running air conditioners with the fresh-air intake closed and the filter clean. You can find more information about protecting yourself and your family from wildfire smoke here.
If you feel ill while you are on the job, make sure to report it your employer and your Occupational Health & Safety Committee. You can also consider submitting a report to WorkSafeBC.
Helping Communities in Need
If you are not in an area directly affected by wildfires but you would like to support those who are being displaced, you can make a donation to the United Way BC’s Wildfire Recovery Fund. The fund provides immediate and long-term support to communities most affected by BC wildfires and goes towards addressing needs such as food assistance, trauma, and mental health support.
Should you have any questions or concerns, please contact a job steward in your area.
