To Everyone Living with the Fires: We Are Thinking of You

It's BC Day, and while many people are at the beach, camping, or spending time with family, thousands of others are watching the horizon, packing valuables, checking evacuation alerts, or waiting for news.

A few weeks ago, while I was painting murals, I asked someone how he was doing.

"Can't complain," he said.

It reminded me of how so many of us answer, "I'm fine."

Later, he shared that his home had burned two years ago. Insurance had been covering his rent while it was rebuilt, and he was expecting to move into his new home soon. My heart immediately went to him. I hope that new home is safe.

Fire leaves marks that aren't always visible. Sometimes it's the loss of a home. Sometimes it's the smoke that brings back memories. Sometimes it's the uncertainty of not knowing what tomorrow will bring.

I've experienced devastating fire in Mexico, forest fires and heavy smoke in the Kootenays, and smoky summers in Vancouver. I know how quickly the smell of smoke can stir up old emotions.

To everyone affected by the wildfires in British Columbia and beyond: you are not alone. We are thinking of you and hoping for your safety.

Helpful reminders:

• If you're under an evacuation order, leave immediately. Your safety comes first.
• If you're on evacuation alert, be ready to leave with little notice. Pack medications, important documents, chargers, pet supplies, water, clothing, and keepsakes that matter most.
• Keep phones, battery packs, radios, and flashlights charged whenever you have power.
• If you lose internet or cell service, battery-powered or crank radios can provide emergency updates.
• Check on neighbours, seniors, and anyone who may need extra help. A simple knock on the door can make a big difference.
• Conserve fuel if you're in an evacuation area, and keep your vehicle ready to go.
• If smoke is heavy, reduce strenuous outdoor activity, keep windows closed if it's cooler inside, and seek cleaner air if needed.
• If the power is out, conserve your phone battery. Text messages often get through when calls don't.
• Let family know you're safe whenever possible, but remember that communications may be limited.
• If you have internet access, download emergency information now in case you lose service later.

Stay informed through official sources whenever possible:

• BC Wildfire Service
• EmergencyInfoBC
• Alertable (for evacuation alerts and orders)
• DriveBC (road conditions and closures)
• Environment and Climate Change Canada (weather and air quality)
• Local governments, First Nations, and regional districts for community updates

To everyone who has evacuated, to those protecting homes and communities, and to the firefighters, pilots, emergency personnel, volunteers, and neighbours helping one another—thank you.

Stay safe. Stay informed. Look after each other.

#BCWildfires

#StaySafeBC

#EmergencyPreparedness

#EvacuationAlert

#EvacuationOrder

#BCDay

#CommunityStrong

#WildfireSafety

#CheckOnYourNeighbours

#HopeAndR

esilience