Coquitlam long term care and assisted living facilities are playing host to elderly people evacuated from care homes in B.C.’s interior.
Beginning Saturday evening (Aug. 14), residents of at least three care homes in the 100 Mile House area of B.C. were evacuated to facilities in Surrey, Coquitlam, Burnaby and Abbotsford, according to Fraser Health.
“We’re working in partnership with the long-term care and assisted living operators, to ensure continuity of care for current residents and tenants and those arriving beginning today,” a spokesperson for Fraser Health said in a statement on Saturday, Aug. 14.
“We know it’s an extremely difficult time for people affected by wildfires across B.C., and we’re ensuring the transition is as smooth and comfortable as possible.”
The press release notes that all COVID-19 safety protocols will be followed during the transfer and accommodation of residents and tenant.
Homes affected in 100 Mile House include Fischer Place, Mill Site Lodge and Carefree Manor.
The Tri-City News has reached out to Fraser Health for more details about the evacuation to local care homes and will report out as more information becomes available.
Meanwhile, The Ministry of Transportation (MoTI) is asking Interior motorists to stay off roads for non-essential travel in wildfire areas.
All major highways into the Thompson/Okanagan are impacted in some way by the dozens of nearby wildfires, with many under advisory due to smoke and visibility issues, and the Coquihalla closed.
Drivers are encouraged to monitor DriveBC for updates.
