The Government of Yukon is assisting with emergency response operations in the Northwest Territories (NWT) and supporting Yellowknife residents who are evacuating their homes.
Four individuals from the Fire Marshal’s Office (three Special Heavy Operations Team (SHOT) members and one Deputy Fire Marshal) were deployed along with five City of Whitehorse firefighters to work directly with the City of Yellowknife Fire Department.
Supporting the Government of Northwest Territories’ order to evacuate, the Emergency Measures Organization (EMO) is working with Emergency Support Services (ESS) on providing support and accommodations to any NWT residents who are needing assistance.
Any NWT evacuees in Whitehorse should call ESS at 867-332-4597 to register and discuss the availability of supports.
We’ve all been alarmed by the wildfires around Yellowknife and the speed with which circumstances have changed. Yukoners always stand with our neighbours and we’re happy to have a role in keeping Yellowknife residents safe. We are hoping for a quick, successful outcome to this stressful and terrible situation.
Minister of Community Services Richard Mostyn
The stress and upset of having to leave your home and community under these circumstances is immense. We are here to welcome our neighbours with care and compassion and support them however we can.
Minister of Health and Social Services Tracy-Anne McPhee
The City of Whitehorse has been in regular contact with the City of Yellowknife and our emergency management partners. In addition to our firefighters, the City has offered a variety of other personnel to support response and evacuation efforts and we are ready to support in any way we can, for as long as we are needed.
Whitehorse Mayor Laura Cabott
Renée Francoeur
Cabinet Communications
867-334-9194
renee.francoeur@yukon.ca
Wayne Potoroka
Communications, Community Services
867-332-9427
wayne.potoroka@yukon.ca
Kate Erwin
Communications, Health and Social Services
867-334-9269
kate.erwin@yukon.ca