Lorne Doerkson
Special to the Tribune
It’s only May and there are already a staggering 106 active fires burning in British Columbia.
Over the last few years, Cariboo-Chilcotin has been one of many regions devastated by wildfires. I have heard heartbreaking stories in the community of people being affected. Particularly tragic was the loss of nine-year-old Carter Vigh from 100 Mile House, who died due to a severe asthma attack worsened by smoke and poor air quality from nearby wildfires. My heart goes out to Carter’s family and all those who have suffered tragic losses.
While wildfires wreak havoc across our province, it is important to recognize the hard work of community members who courageously battle them each year. The Cariboo Fire Centre in Williams Lake is an amazing group of people who exemplify this as they bravely fight wildfires across the central Interior. Like firefighters across the province, these people are unsung heroes who risk their lives to protect the homes and lives of British Columbians.
We owe it to those on the front lines to provide the additional personnel and resources to needed to combat wildfires effectively.
As we face another fire season, our province desperately needs to reassess its approach. That’s why Our BC United caucus has proposed a comprehensive blueprint for reforming British Columbia’s wildfire preparedness, response, and recovery strategies.
This includes evaluating our technological solutions and fire response, prevention measures and community protection, and recovery and financial assistance.
In battling wildfires, we must also use cutting-edge B.C.-made technology and invest in suppression technology, specialized drones, and mass water delivery systems that can effectively target and respond to fires.
Lastly, we need to harness the power of local resources and expertise. Those on the ground, including First Nations, contractors, operators, and volunteer fire response teams, have extensive knowledge about effectively fighting wildfires. Their skills, supplies, resources, and knowledge can make an important difference in fighting wildfires in Cariboo-Chilcotin.
As we brace for the upcoming summer, my thoughts are with those on the frontline and our entire community.
Lorne Doerkson is the MLA for the Cariboo Chilcotin
READ MORE: Cariboo Regional District preparing for wildfire season
READ MORE: B.C. prepares for wildfires as forecasts call for hot weather amid drought
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