Work continues in and around Clinton to protect the community, restore essential services and prepare for the safe return of residents.
While significant progress is being made, a safe return depends on several factors. The Village of Clinton remains under Evacuation Order, and there is currently no confirmed date for re-entry.
CLINTON VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT
Village staff, elected officials and the Clinton Emergency Operations Centre team would like to acknowledge the continued hard work, dedication and commitment to our community shown by the members of the Clinton Volunteer Fire Department (CVFD).
From the outset, CVFD members have stood side-by-side with BC Wildfire Service crews, working day and night to protect lives, homes, businesses and critical infrastructure in our village.
Since this emergency began, our volunteer firefighters have worked incredibly long hours under difficult conditions. Today, we are very glad to share that members can begin taking longer breaks, spending time with their families and getting some well-earned rest.
We owe them, and their families, a tremendous debt of gratitude.
EMERGENCY RESPONSE CONTINUES IN CLINTON
BC Wildfire Service, the Clinton Volunteer Fire Department, structure protection personnel, utility crews, contractors and other emergency personnel continue to work in and around the Village.
Their work includes wildfire suppression and structure protection, hotspot patrols, infrastructure assessment and repair, and other critical work necessary to protect Clinton and support eventual re-entry.
HEALTH AND WELLNESS
Like CVFD members, we encourage all residents to seek out respite opportunities from the stress and anxiety that the provincial wildfires can bring.
PreparedBC offers the following advice and services for those needing extra support for their mental health:
- Call KUU-US Indigenous Crisis Line: 1 800 588-8717
- Or call BC’s Mental Health Support Line: 310-6789 (no area code)
- Tips to help take care of your mental and physical health:
- Get enough sleep, eat healthy foods and stay hydrated
- Be kind and patient with yourself and others
- Seek support and connect with others when you need it. If you’re feeling sad, mad or confused, or even feeling nothing at all.
Learn more: https://ow.ly/avJw50PBGIS
RESTORATION OF POWER
Power has been restored to all areas of the Village.
The restoration of electrical infrastructure is an important step toward recovery, and we appreciate the significant work BC Hydro crews have undertaken in extremely difficult conditions.
NOTE: Power being restored does not mean the Evacuation Order has been lifted or that residents may return.
Electrical service is one of several conditions that must be assessed before re-entry can occur.
ACCESS TO THE VILLAGE REMAINS RESTRICTED
While the Evacuation Order remains in effect, public access to the Village continues to be restricted.
Access is limited to authorized first responders and essential personnel, along with approved access for urgent life-safety needs. Access passes are not intended for checking properties, retrieving general belongings, assessing property damage or conducting routine business.
Residents are asked to continue respecting road closures and access restrictions so emergency personnel can safely carry out their work.
For information about urgent access to the Village and the requirements to do so, contact the Emergency Operations Centre at 250-377-6313.
PROVINCIAL STATE OF EMERGENCY
The Province of British Columbia declared a provincial state of emergency today in response to the significant wildfire situation affecting communities across B.C.
For Clinton residents, the declaration does not change the current Evacuation Order or mean that residents can return sooner or must remain away longer.
The declaration provides the Province with additional authorities to coordinate resources and respond to needs across B.C. during the wildfire emergency. The Village will continue working with provincial agencies and regional partners to support Clinton through the response and recovery.
EMERGENCY SUPPORTS REMAIN AVAILABLE
Residents who continue to need assistance with essential needs while evacuated should remain connected with Emergency Support Services (ESS).
If you have questions about ESS support, please call: 1-800-387-4258
The Emergency Operations Centre will continue to share updates as more information becomes available.
Stay safe.
