Some Slave Lake evacuees began returning home Friday nearly two weeks after wildfires charred the northern Alberta town.
A lineup of vans, recreational vehicles, pickups, SUVs and cars began rolling into the town's entry point early Friday morning. They were greeted by a Canadian flag hung from a ladder of a firefighter's truck.
Slave Lake mayor Karina Pillay-Kinnee told Â鶹´«Ã½ only residents whose homes that were undamaged by the fire were being allowed in. She said those with destroyed homes are being advised to remain in their current accommodations until more permanent arrangements have been made.
As evacuees made their way into town, RCMP officers made sure the returnees had the proper supplies with them. Residents were being told to pack at least three days worth of food and water and to fill prescriptions ahead of time.
"It's going to be emotional to see that place," said Slave Lake resident Angela Bartlett.
On May 15, about 7,000 people fled the northern community after wildfires, exacerbated by 100 kilometre-an-hour winds, destroyed a third of the town. In the fires wake, more than 400 homes and businesses were left in ruins.
Many business owners, such as grocery store vendors, were given permission to return early so that their stores could be open in time for the returnees.
According to officials, there's no longer a threat of wildfires returning to Slave Lake, Sawridge or the Municipal District of Lesser Slave River. However, fire officials say there are 36 wildfires still burning in Alberta -- four of them listed as out of control.
Essential services such as power, natural gas and phone have already been restored. Water services have also been restored but a boil water advisory is still in effect.
According to the province, the RCMP will be implementing a process for residents to recover personal property.
Meanwhile, efforts are underway to provide residents with social services. Returnees are being invited to visit a local school where a community social centre has been set up.
The centre will provide residents with counseling, childcare and housing/insurance information.
Essential medical workers have also returned. About 100 doctors and nurses have been provided temporary shelter.
The devastating wildfire has spurred an outpouring of generosity from Canadians. Many have donated clothing, food and hundreds of dollars.
The Alberta government has designated $50 million in disaster relief for residents. The fund includes more than $1,000 for every adult evacuee.
