Summer is gradually coming to a close, but the wildfire risk in many parts of the province remains a very serious concern. British Columbians are urged to exercise caution and remain vigilant to help prevent human-caused wildfires.

With B.C. Day around the corner, everyone has a role to play in helping to prevent wildfires and having a safe, healthy long weekend.

As part of the Province’s 2012 agreement, the Canadian Red Cross is providing registration services to those displaced by wildfires in the province.

Todd Stone, Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure and Minister responsible for Emergency Management BC, this evening announced a provincial state of emergency to ensure a co-ordinated response to the current wildfire situation and to ensure public safety.

Following recent flooding events earlier this month and with the potential for more seasonal flooding in communities surrounding the Okanagan Lake in the coming weeks due to increased snowmelt and forecasted warmer weather, Emergency Management BC asks that residents in the area take precautions to ensure personal safety.

Disaster Financial Assistance (DFA) is now available to eligible British Columbians in the Central region who may have been impacted from the flooding that began on May 4, 2017.

Areas in the south and central interior of the province remain under Evacuation Alert or Order after recent flooding events, and there is a potential for increased snowmelt and further precipitation and flooding next week.