Online posts that I have read regarding the way Prince George handled the evacuations for the most part are positive. However, I have read a few posts that were not so favorable - complaints about how the volunteers were managed, volunteers not called or cancelled and the real head spinner - people offered their homes to evacuees but weren't chosen and didn't receive any funding.
Some disorganization? Maybe, as to be expected under the circumstances. Volunteers quickly came together, were scheduled and put to work, schedules seemed reasonable, breaks were encouraged and meals were provided. Were there too many volunteers? Too few? Maybe, but what a great opportunity to learn and improve our community emergency response.
The volunteers I worked with were great - kind and compassionate, so many people stepped up to help. The evacuees that I met with were patient and very calm. From what I have read most were grateful and felt they have been treated well.
Many will have opinions on how things went. If we look at what we did as a community - considering the unpredictability of fire, few homes lost, people moved to safety and basic needs taken care of., then collectively, the team did pretty damn good.
Many organizations are likely planning incident reviews/debriefs, all in an effort to up our game in response to local and provincial emergencies. Volunteers could make a list of things that went well and what might be done better in the future. Send it to the organization you volunteered for - I am sure they will be open to receiving recommendations for improvement.
Time for planning and training makes all the difference in how we react to an emergency. We have a perfect opportunity as a community to learn from this incident. Can we do better? Always.
Smokers flicking your lit cigarette butts, having camp fires during fire bans? Really? You are jeopardizing so much. Taking advantage of the situation or complaining you were not afforded the opportunity to cash in on this tragedy? Shame on you.
I am proud to be a part of community that offered their hearts, homes and services. Way to go, P.G.! Don't forget this isn't over - B.C. is still burning. Keep informed and stay safe.
Tracy Day, Prince George
