To help ensure the safety and security of evacuees who are away from their home communities, the Manitoba RCMP, Winnipeg Police Service, Brandon Police Service and the Manitoba First Nation Police Service have developed a pamphlet that will be distributed to evacuation centres across the province. This includes Winnipeg, Portage la Prairie, Brandon, Dauphin and Thompson among others.
The pamphlet highlights important information on how to stay safe while away from home along with key phone numbers for evacuees. The information will also be available online and shared via social media.
The pamphlet is an important resource for evacuees who find themselves in unfamiliar surroundings, as criminals will often target and take advantage of people who are going through difficult situations and who may be vulnerable. This can range from scammers tricking the elderly into giving them money to human traffickers offering gifts or money to youth as grooming tactics.
“To all our relatives who have had to leave their northern homes because of the fires, I want you to know we are thinking of you and praying for your safety. Winnipeg and Brandon are very different places from our communities — they are fast moving and carry risks we don’t face back home. Please be cautious, look out for one another, and stay connected. Your safety and well-being remain our top priority.”
MKO Grand Chief Garrison Settee
"During this state of emergency when situations are unfolding quickly, you can find factual information in this pamphlet to keep yourself and your loved ones safe. The MMF - National Government of the Red River Métis - has mobilized to support Citizens and the wider community impacted by this natural disaster and you can feel confident knowing we are working with the RCMP and other government agencies to make sure you remain safe.”
MMF President David Chartrand
“This is an extremely challenging time for all evacuees, unfortunately, we also know this presents an opportunity for criminals who want nothing more but to enrich themselves. This pamphlet provides very basic but also very important information that we hope will help evacuees to stay safe while living away from home.”
Inspector Catherine Light, Officer in Charge of Community Engagement Services, Manitoba RCMP
“There is a great deal of disruption, stress and uncertainty for evacuees and we know being relocated to a larger centre like Winnipeg can present additional challenges. Clear communication is essential. We want evacuees to have access to crime prevention tips, as well as information on who to contact and when, should they need support. We will be providing a proactive presence to the congregate shelters and hotels, we are here to help and hopefully be a reassuring presence.”
Superintendent Bonnie Emerson, Community Engagement, Winnipeg Police Service
“On behalf of the Brandon Police Service, our hearts are with all those displaced by the wildfires — we stand with you during this difficult time. We are committed to supporting a safe and respectful environment here in Brandon, and we extend our deepest gratitude to the frontline workers courageously battling the blaze and protecting lives and property with unwavering dedication.”
Chief Tyler Bates – Brandon Police Service
