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By Kamloops-South Thompson MLA Todd Stone

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SOUND OFF: Bold new action needed to face wildfires

May 30, 2024 | 1:39 PM

AS SUMMER APPROACHES, we find ourselves bracing for another wildfire season here in British Columbia. Already, there are a staggering 111 active fires burning in our province.

The scars from last summer are still fresh in our memories and the early onset of fires this year serves as a stark reminder of the challenges that lie ahead.

The 2023 wildfire season was the most devastating in our province’s history. Over 2.84 million hectares of forest and land was consumed by flames, displacing tens of thousands of people and destroying hundreds of homes and structures. North Shuswap and the Skwlax First Nation were particularly hard hit, faced with massive evacuations and numerous homes and businesses destroyed. While rebuilding efforts are underway, many people are still feeling the impacts.

The Kamloops-South Thompson area, like many parts of British Columbia, has faced significant hardships due to wildfires over the last number of years. The memory of the White Rock Lake Fire, which damaged 29 properties in 2021, is still vivid for many residents while folks in communities like Monte Lake and Paxton Valley have endured immense suffering as well. These fires do more than destroy properties; they disrupt lives and leave lasting damage.

Despite the devastation, the resilience of our community shines through. The dedication and bravery of our firefighters, BC Wildfire Service members, first responders, volunteer fire departments and countless others who battle these blazes deserve our heartfelt gratitude. These individuals are true heroes, risking their lives to protect people and property. Their courage and dedication do not go unnoticed.

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The NDP’s approach to wildfire management has been marked by inaction and bureaucratic delays, resulting in record-breaking destruction and economic losses year after year. It’s time for a new approach — one that prioritizes the safety and security of our communities.

Kevin Falcon and BC United have proposed a comprehensive policy to reform our province’s wildfire preparedness, response and recovery strategies. This includes embracing new technological solutions, prevention measures and community protection and recovery efforts. We must invest in cutting-edge, made-in-B.C. suppression technology, such as specialized drones and mass water delivery systems, to effectively target and respond to fires.

Harnessing the power of local resources and expertise is also crucial. First Nations contractors, operators and volunteer fire response teams possess invaluable knowledge and skills that can make a significant difference in fighting wildfires.

In the face of these recurring disasters, we must dramatically change how we support those who have been impacted by fires.

This year, I introduced the Emergency and Disaster Management Amendment Act 2024, which aims to modernize the Disaster Financial Assistance (DFA) program. The current DFA program, designed to assist those unable to secure insurance coverage, has not been updated in more than five decades and is completely insufficient for today’s challenges.

Our BC United legislation called for measures to streamline the Disaster Financial Assistance process, extend aid to regions not covered by insurance, and create a grant program to help homeowners cope with escalating insurance premiums. Unfortunately, David Eby and the NDP refused to call our bill for debate.

As we prepare for the upcoming wildfire season, my thoughts are with those on the front lines and everyone in our communities. We’re in this together.

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Editor’s Note: This opinion piece reflects the views of its author, and does not necessarily represent the views of CFJC Today or Pattison Media.