News Release

City of Edmonton supports provincial wildfire response

The City of Edmonton has responded to a request for assistance from the Alberta Emergency Management Agency to support a wildfire evacuation in Brazeau County and Drayton Valley. A state of local emergency was declared and residents in the area have been ordered to evacuate. As a result the City of Edmonton has activated the Emergency Operations Centre and set up an evacuee reception centre.

The Reception Centre is located in the Edmonton Expo Centre at 7515-118 Avenue NW in Hall C. Evacuees are encouraged to come directly to the Reception Centre upon arrival in Edmonton. Even if evacuees do not require accommodation and other services, it is recommended that they register their contact information to receive future updates and information on available services.

Currently, the Centre is providing temporary lodging, food services, clothing, animal care and health care. Donations are not being accepted at this time.

Edmonton Fire Rescue Services has also provided support to Parkland County by sending two fully staffed fire trucks, one district chief and one service technician (mechanic). This team was sent to Entwistle to provide structure protection in the town.

“Edmonton is proud to support our regional neighbours in dealing with these wildfires,” said City Manager Andre Corbould. “We will continue to support this co-ordinated response.”

To support this response, the planned Get Ready in the Park event on Saturday May 6, is cancelled.