B.C. Premier Announces Task Force On Climate Emergencies

The province has launched what it’s calling an expert task force on wildfires, drought, heat, floods, and other emergencies affecting British Columbia.

“With the profound effects of climate change, this year’s unprecedented wildfire season has had a devastating impact on people in British Columbia. Hundreds have lost their homes, tens of thousands were forced to evacuate and two heroic young B.C. firefighters tragically lost their lives.", said Premier David Eby in a statement by the province.

Eby says their immediate focus remains on fighting wildfires as well as helping people and communities contend with the impacts of drought.

Additionally, he says the province needs to continually update and enhance its prevention and response measures to the near-constant series of emergencies we are facing as a result of climate change.

The province says the task force will provide advice to increase local volunteer recruitment, to further collaborate with communities and First Nations, to incorporate municipal firefighting and other emergency forces, to deploy enhanced technology, and to provide constant support to those on the front lines.

The task force will also provide ways to address the need for more accessible support for evacuees, with specific attention to timely access to short-term financial supports and accommodation.

Eby visited fire-stricken areas last week and says it was clear that the province could be doing a better job of leveraging local knowledge and expertise when it comes to preventing and fighting wildfires.

To see the full release, visit Government of British Columbia.