**** HRM Media Release
Municipal fires and impacts update – May 30, 3 p.m.
The Halifax Regional Municipality is providing residents with the following update in response to the ongoing fires.
Update to the fire evacuation zone map
Municipal officials received a briefing from the Fire Incident Commander today. The Incident Commander discussed selected areas of the fire evacuation zone which might be considered for re-entry in the coming days if conditions are favourable.
However, it is critical to remember that no reductions to the fire evacuation zone or the local state of emergency zone will be considered if weather or other factors increase fire spread or the risk of fire spread.
The municipality has updated the map of the fire evacuation area and the local state of emergency area, outlining the area of significant impact.
All residents and businesses with property in the area of significant impact are required to register with 311 via the online form (or by calling 1.800.835.6428) for follow-up when more information becomes available.
Additional information will be made available to affected residents once detailed mapping has been completed. It is estimated that 200 structures have been destroyed as a result of the fires, approximately 150 of which are homes. A full assessment of the damage cannot yet be confirmed.
The municipality is currently developing a plan to support affected residents. It is anticipated that this process will take several days, or maybe longer, as the fires remain active.
Residents are not allowed to return to their homes until they are advised that it is safe to do so by municipal authorities. Residents must remain clear of the fire evacuation area and refrain from filming and taking photos of the fire area, including flying personal drones.
United Way Wildfire Recovery Appeal
United Way Halifax is launching the United Way Wildfire Recovery Appeal to support communities impacted by the wildfires across Nova Scotia as they recover and rebuild.
Communities need a wide variety of supports and services when rebuilding after a climate change disaster such as a wildfire. Although there is not yet a full understanding of community needs, this fund will likely support things like basic needs, groceries, connection and mental health supports.
To make a donation to the wildfire recovery appeal, visit unitedwayhalifax.ca and click on the “donate now” button.
Cybersecurity
The municipality has been advised by the Nova Scotia RCMP of ongoing scam calls soliciting donations in response to the ongoing fires. Residents looking to contribute are encouraged to use the United Way Wildfire Recovery Appeal.
The municipality is also aware of ongoing scam texts regarding residents’ pets. Residents are reminded to always verify the source of calls, and to not give personal information to unknown callers.
Evacuation information and response
The Canada Games Centre evacuation centre at 26 Thomas Raddall Drive is open until further notice.
Nova Scotia Health’s mobility primary care clinic has opened a drop-in clinic at the Canada Games Centre. The clinic opened at 9 a.m. and will remain open until 5 p.m. today.
The Insurance Bureau of Canada and seven major insurance companies and their representatives will be available to speak with affected residents at the Canada Games Centre today until 7 p.m. today. Future opportunities to speak with their representatives will be available in the coming days.
Comfort centres
Comfort centre details are as follows:
- Black Point and Area Community Centre | 8579 St Margarets Bay Road. The comfort centre opened at 7 a.m. and will remain open until 9 p.m.
- Beaver Bank Kinsac Community Centre | 1583 Beaver Bank Road. The comfort centre opened at 8 a.m. and will remain open until 9 p.m.
Please visit: halifax.ca/fire or follow @hfxgov on Twitter for all fire updates.
