British Columbia's request for assistance from the federal government was received earlier this afternom and was met with a quick response from Ottawa.
Ralph Goodale, Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness and Harjit Sajjan, Minister of National Defence, delivered the good news on Monday in a press release to the public.
We have accepted an official request for assistance from the Province of BC to help in the fight against the wildfires. Through air support & personnel, the Government of Canada will support affected communities & First Responders who are courageously taking on this battle.
— Ralph Goodale (@RalphGoodale) August 13, 2018
"The Government of Canada has accepted a formal request for federal assistance from the Government of British Columbia to help protect communities affected by wildfires," write Goodale and Sajjan.
Ottawa has not provided an estimated time of support arrival to the west coast, but did write, "British Columbians can rest assured that help will be provided as soon as possible."
The Canadian Government has filled the province's order and will send approximately 200 troops, including support from the Canadian Armed Forces, are expected to be sent from the federal government to assist in mop-up operations.
In response to a request for assistance from officials in BC, our @canadianforces will be deployed to support the wildfire fighting effort. Our women and men in uniform are always ready to help when called upon. Thinking of my fellow BCers as they face this difficult time.
— Harjit Sajjan (@HarjitSajjan) August 13, 2018
Additionally, air assets will be made available to transport firefighting personnel and equipment, support medical evacuations and relocate residents of remote communities to safer areas.
"We urge all affected residents to follow the instructions and advice of law enforcement and first responders. On behalf of all Canadians, we thank all the first responders and volunteers working hard at keeping everyone safe."
For more information on fires in the region, visit our Fire Watch page.
