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When the B.C. government decided to undertake a significant review of the provincial wildfire and flood response earlier this year, the BCGEU/NUPGE initiated a wide consultation of members to document the various ways they had been affected by the unprecedented fire and flood season.
Vancouver (21 March 2018) — For many people across the province the summer of 2017 was one of angst, uncertainty, and demanding work load due to extreme wildfires and floods.
Frontline emergency workers document effects of fire and flood season
Members of the B.C. Government and Service Employees' Union (BCGEU/NUPGE) were front and centre in containment and rescue efforts delivered through key agencies like the B.C. Wildfire Service and Emergency Management B.C. Others across the public service took on significant roles in management, administration, communications, volunteer coordination and emergency services. Many dedicated themselves to helping vulnerable citizens and clients through their roles in community social services, seniors' care, and provincial health services.
When the B.C. government decided to undertake a significant review of the provincial wildfire and flood response earlier this year, the BCGEU/NUPGE initiated a wide consultation of members to document the various ways they had been affected by the unprecedented fire and flood season.
Findings can better prepare government in planning for future disaster response
The BCGEU/NUPGE offers a sincere thank you to the many dedicated members who took part in its consultation and engagement efforts. This information will help to better prepare the province for future extreme wildfires and floods — a concerning “new normal” for the province.
The union has officially submitted the cumulative findings of this outreach to the B.C. government. The BCGEU/NUPGE report is based on the direct experience of those who lived and worked on the frontlines of the floods and wildfires and will be a useful resource for future disaster relief and planning efforts.