Essential Resources and Guidance
Jasper Wildfire Evacuation
As the Chetamon wildfire continues to impact Jasper National Park and its surrounding areas, evacuees and residents need accurate and up-to-date information to navigate this challenging time. Here are key resources and steps to follow to ensure safety and access to necessary assistance.
Stay Informed
Official Updates:
Municipality of Jasper: Check their emergency information page for real-time updates and alerts.
Parks Canada: Visit their wildfire updates page for the latest information on fire status and safety measures.
Alberta Emergency Alerts: Sign up here for alerts to receive notifications directly to your phone or email.
Evacuation Routes and Centers
Designated Evacuation Routes:
Primary routes include Highway 16 and 93A. Authorities may implement intermittent traffic controls based on fire conditions and visibility issues.
Always follow the instructions provided by local officials regarding the safest routes to take.
Returning to Jasper to collect personal items, documents, and assets is not possible. The Town of Jasper and Jasper National Park remain closed, and it is crucial to comply with the evacuation order.
If you’ve evacuated safely, register as an evacuee. If you have an Alberta Digital ID, use this link: emergencyregistration.alberta.ca
If you do not have a My Alberta Digital ID, you can register in-person at a Reception Centre in Grande Prairie and Calgary.
Reception Centers:
West on HWY 16:
The Town of Valemount has limited services and cannot accommodate more evacuees at this time.
Evacuees travelling from the Municipality of Jasper and Jasper National Park should continue on Highway 16 through B.C. and select a route back to Alberta.
Designated Reception Centres are opening in Grande Prairie and in Calgary.
Grande Prairie Reception Centre: Bonnets Energy Centre, 10017 99 Ave, Grande Prairie, AB, opening at 9:00 am on Tuesday, July 23.
Calgary:
Take highway 5 south to Kamloops, then proceed East on Highway 1 to Calgary. Calgary Reception Centre: Shouldice Arena 1515 Home Road, N.W.
Rest Stops
Valemount: Short term parking available at the Canoe Valley Recreation Centre at 100 Elm Street.
McBride: Robson Valley Community Centre at 441 Columbia Street.
Prince George: Evacuees can stop and shelter in vehicles at CN Centre (2187 Ospika Blvd S.) before continuing to Grande Prairie.
Registration for Evacuees
If you’ve evacuated safely, register as an evacuee. If you have an Alberta Digital ID, use this link: https://emergencyregistration.alberta.ca/
If you do not have a My Alberta Digital ID, you can register in-person at a Reception Centre in Grande Prairie and Calgary.
Transportation Assistance
Available Transportation:
The Emergency Support Services (ESS) Reception Centre will reopen at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, July 24.
For ESS information after-hours, evacuees can call 778-675-3735
The ESS Reception Centre is located at 4249 18th Avenue, Prince George, BC
For the most up-to-date evacuee information, visit the Municipality of Jasper website: https://www.jasper-alberta.ca/
Health and Safety Resources
Air Quality Monitoring:
The wildfire has significantly impacted air quality. Use resources like Alberta Air Quality Health Index to monitor conditions.
Limit outdoor activities and keep windows and doors closed to reduce smoke inhalation.
Medical Assistance:
Local Hospitals and Clinics: Ensure you know the locations of medical facilities in your evacuation area. Alberta Health Services provides a hospital locator.
Financial and Practical Support
Financial Assistance:
Alberta Emergency Financial Assistance: Offers emergency financial aid to evacuees. Apply at Alberta Emergency Financial Assistance or call 1-866-644-5135.
Red Cross Canada: Provides support for evacuees, including financial aid and temporary accommodation. Visit their website or call 1-800-418-1111.
Insurance Claims:
Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC): For guidance on filing insurance claims related to wildfire damage, contact IBC at 1-844-227-5422 or visit IBC's website.
Mental Health and Community Support
Mental Health Support:
Mental Health Helpline: 1-877-303-2642 provides confidential support for those experiencing stress, anxiety, or trauma due to the wildfire.
Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA): Offers resources and support for mental health. Visit their website or contact your local chapter.
Returning Home Safely
Safe Re-entry Guidelines:
Wait for official clearance before returning home. Authorities will provide updates on when it is safe to return.
Inspect your home for structural damage, smoke, and ash. Follow guidelines for safe cleaning and repairs.
Recovery and Rebuilding:
Staying informed and utilizing available resources is crucial during wildfire emergencies. Ensure you have access to reliable information sources and support services to navigate this difficult time safely.
For continuous updates and detailed information, visit the Alberta Wildfire Status Dashboard and Global News.
Stay safe and take care of each other as we navigate this challenging period together.