THE CANADIAN PRESS/AP/Noah Berger

By Susan McNeil

Wildfire

Full evacuation of Southend ordered due to wildfire

Aug 28, 2024 | 9:28 AM

A one kilometre-wide forest fire fueled by strong winds has resulted in the full evacuation of the community of Southend.

Peter Ballantyne Cree Nation told the 1,100 residents yesterday to be ready to go on short notice and ordered a full evacuation this morning.

According to a bulletin shared on the band’s social media, the fire is one kilometre from the Saskatchewan Highway’s camp nearby.

The fire is an immediate threat, said PBCN leadership and has already restricted travel on the road.

“The safety and well-being of our community members are our highest priorities, and we ask everyone to follow the evacuation instructions carefully,” said PBCN.

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All evacuees are asked to register with the Red Cross, preferably before they leave the community.

Priority one and two are individuals with high needs, who should go to the community health centre for help. Transportation and medical support will be arranged for people needing urgent care or help.

People with those priorities who choose to drive can get a fuel voucher at the Arthur Morin Memorial Health Center and gas up at Bird’s Confectionary before going to the Jonas Roberts Memorial Community Centre in La Ronge.

Evacuees will get lunch and more information on where to go next.

All other residents should go to the band hall in Southend and again, register using the QR code provided by the Red Cross.

Those evacuees driving can also get a fuel voucher at the band office and gas up at Bird’s Confectionary.

Important things to pack include identification and important documents, medicines and health supplies, diapers, baby formula, food and water for three days, clothing and personal items for an extended stay.

The Red Cross is organizing shelter and other services which people can access at the registration centre in La Ronge.

Where evacuees will go after they reach La Ronge is still unknown. Many hotels in Prince Albert and Saskatoon are filled with evacuees from Sandy Bay.

For updates, everyone should monitor the PBCN website and Facebook page.

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susan.mcneil@pattisonmedia.com