PETERS: What can we do to help others – and ourselves – during another devastating wildfire season?

Even worse, it’s difficult to know what any of us can do to make this situation any easier for ourselves or for the people around us. How can we even help?

Here are a few suggestions.

First, don’t be stupid or careless and add to the problems we already have.

Abide by the fire bans, be extra careful in the back country, put out your cigarettes properly, and stay well clear of firefighting operations – that includes with boats and drones.

Second, if you can, donate money to non-profits that are providing relief.

The Canadian Red Cross, United Way BC, First Nations’ Emergency Services Society and the BC SPCA are just a few organizations helping those devastated by these fires.

In past years, when homes were destroyed, Mennonite Disaster Service was among the first organizations on the ground with volunteers helping to rebuild.

There are plenty of options, faith-based and otherwise.

Third, check on your family, friends and neighbours.

If they’re not directly affected by the fires, they may be having trouble with the smoke and the heat. That’s especially true for our elders.

And all of us may be having trouble with our moods and our mental health.

With panic all around us and smoke descending from above, it can feel like the world is closing in.

It’s important to do things that help keep our spirits up.

If you can tolerate the smoke, get out to Ribfest with friends this weekend – or head downtown for Hot Nite in the City.

Just getting out of the house might seem like something small – but when faced with a situation like this, it’s the little things that keep us going.

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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.

by James Peters

PETERS: What can we do to help others – and ourselves – during another devastating wildfire season?

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