Fire burns and smoke fills the air near homes in Fort McMurray, Alberta on Tuesday May 3, 2016. Raging forest fires whipped up by shifting winds sliced through the middle of the remote oilsands hub city of Fort McMurray Tuesday, sending tens of thousands fleeing in both directions and prompting the evacuation of the entire city. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Kitty Cochrane
Fire burns and smoke fills the air near homes in Fort McMurray, Alberta on Tuesday May 3, 2016. Raging forest fires whipped up by shifting winds sliced through the middle of the remote oilsands hub city of Fort McMurray Tuesday, sending tens of thousands fleeing in both directions and prompting the evacuation of the entire city. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Kitty Cochrane

 

You can do your part to help the evacuating residents of Fort McMurray.

The Canadian Red Cross is accepting donations and Chiran Lievera says anything helps.

Lievera is the Deputy Director for Emergency Response and he says the Red Cross is helping with shelter and other immediate needs.

He says donating money right now is the best way to reach out and help.

Lievera says they are also offering a way to connect to loved ones.

He says they have set up a phone line that can help people connect to those who may be in or near the evacuation area.

 

 

The devastating wildfires in Fort McMurray has resulted in the biggest evacuation in Alberta history.

Thousands are fleeing their homes. Some may never be able to return as there are reports of neighborhoods being destroyed.

Here’s how you can help:

  • You can donate to the Red Cross HERE or by texting FIRES to 45678 ($10). It will be added to your phone bill.
  • If you or someone you know can provide resources like equipment or volunteers to help, please contact the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo at 1.866.618.2632 or http://www.rmwb.ca
  • If nearby, there is still a need for fuel, water and food for motorists whose vehicles are on empty south of Fort McMurray on Hwys 63 & 881.
  • If nearby and have accommodations to offer (homes, rental properties, recreational properties, and other available space) visit http://ymmfire.ca/
  • If you’re trying to find a loved one or need evacuation information, you can call the regional municipality at 780-762-3636 or the Red Cross at 1-888-350-6070. Facebook has also put a ‘Check In’ option on the site: www.facebook.com/safetycheck/fortmcmurray.

For a live blog on the wildfires and relief efforts, visit mymcmurray.com.