Volunteers from national humanitarian aid organization Team Rubicon, who are helping with flood prevention in Manitoba’s Peguis First Nation, are shown in this undated handout photo. The veterans and first responders are helping with sandbagging in the flood-prone community. (THE CANADIAN PRESS/Handout – Team Rubicon)
The Canadian Red Cross is increasing its support in Peguis First Nation as the community prepares for potential spring flooding.
Working with Indigenous Services Canada and the province, Red Cross teams have deployed personnel and equipment to assist with flood mitigation efforts at the request of community leadership.
That includes partnering with GlobalMedic to pre-position sandbagging equipment and flood barriers, while crews are actively sandbagging and helping install protective infrastructure in the community.
Additional supports are also being provided, including insulated hip waders, rubber boots, gloves and other protective gear for workers and volunteers. Warming tents equipped with heat, power, tables and seating have been set up to offer a safe space for those working to protect homes, along with cots for volunteers assisting with mitigation efforts.
Officials say they will continue to work closely with Peguis First Nation leadership and government partners as flood risks evolve in the days ahead.
Preparations began last week after the flood-prone First Nation was warned that it could see water levels similar to those in 2022, when more than 2,000 residents were forced out and hundreds of homes were damaged.
Red Cross offers flood preparedness and support resources on its website.
— With files from The Canadian Press
