By Steve Brown, Chief, Klahoose First Nation
At approximately 9:00 PM on Wednesday, November 23, a fire broke out in our community which destroyed at least three units behind the Health Centre. A neighbour heard the fire alarm, called 9-1-1, and the Cortes Fire Department arrived shortly after. Thankfully, everyone involved escaped safely and is okay. The fire was extinguished, and staff are currently assessing damage, working to repair what can be fixed, and supporting members in need.
Related article: How the Cortes Fire Department responded to the fire
Most importantly, everyone is safe and is going to be alright. The Klahoose management team has been supporting those affected to make sure they have a place to stay, supplies, and any other aids to help them during this challenging time. The Strathcona Regional District Emergency Social Services have been activated and are providing additional support for the community.
If you need mental health supports, or other health services, please contact Ivan Boyadjov, Klahoose Health Services Manager: healthmanager@klahoose.org, or 1-250-935-0251 Ext. 0289.
If you have any other concerns, please contact Leah Phillips, Klahoose Director of Operations: director.operations@klahoose.org 1-250-935-6536 Ext. 224
This has been an arduous time for our community, especially while so many are still recovering from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic; it is these challenging times that are a reminder of how our community comes together to lift each other up and ensure everyone is taken care of. I want to thank the Cortes Fire Department for their hard work and saving our Health Centre from the fire; The Klahoose Management Team, many of whom stayed overnight and showed up to the office the next morning to keep going; and the community, for setting a beautiful example of how we unify and care for each other.
Top image credit: Looking towards the Klahoose village – Photo by Roy L Hales