Helping our friends in Slave Lake

Photo courtesy CAN-TF2

In the past 24 hours, we've heard the sad news about the developing situation in Slave Lake. My heart goes out to everyone affected by the devastating fire that has touched the town.

But, I am pleased to know that the City of Calgary and many Calgarians are already en route to help protect people, their homes and businesses.

This morning, 50 firefighters from the Calgary Fire Department left immediately for Slave Lake. They brought with them fire fighting equipment that will be used to help subdue the fire. They will soon be joined by 50 more firefighters as part of our full 100-person contingent.

Calgary-based Canada Task Force 2 (CAN-TF2) has also left for Westlock. There, the Heavy Urban Search and Rescue team will help all the people evacuated out of Slave Lake. This team of Calgary volunteers will use state of the art equipment and rescue gear to provide logistical support for the ongoing evacuation operation. This includes providing an Emergency Medical Assistance Task Force and a mobile command unit.

The upheaval caused by fire and evacuation can be one of the most difficult experiences anyone can have. And, again, I--like many people--am deeply affected by this ongoing tragedy.

But times like these reinforce the importance of compassion for all our friends and neighbours. Calgarians have stepped up to the challenge to help the people of Slave Lake. I know that the professionals and volunteers who are on their way now will do all they can to reduce the impact of this tragedy.

They make me proud to be Calgarian.

- Mayor Naheed Nenshi