Smoke rises from buildings destroyed by a wildfire in Fort McMurray, Alta., in this May 6, 2016, handout still from video. (THE CANADIAN PRESS/HO)
City of Winnipeg paramedics will soon be deployed to Alberta to assist at various reception centres accommodating Fort McMurray wildfire evacuees.
The city received an official request for advanced and primary care paramedics to provide assistance.
“Many Winnipeggers have responded individually and collectively with support after watching the devastating fire spread across northern Alberta,” said Mayor Brian Bowman. “As a city, we also want to do our part to help, and are happy to assist in any way we can.”
Fire Chief John Lane says the Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service is determining who is available to be deployed.
“We are seeking paramedics from our firefighting, ambulance, and supervisory branches for potential deployment, possibly up to one month in duration. However we will ensure that there are no impacts to local service,” he said.
It’s not clear how long Winnipeg paramedics will be deployed or when they will leave. The city is also looking at costs, lodging and transportation as part of its response to Alberta’s request.
