Updated Tuesday, Aug. 1, 2017 at 2 p.m.
The Williams Lake campus has re-opened after improvements to the wildfire situation in the region.
As wildfires across BC continue to have a traumatic impact on our communities, the Thompson Nicola Regional District (TNRD), BC Emergency Social Services (ESS) and several other agencies continue to work together at the Emergency Social Service (ESS) Reception Centre at the Sandman Centre, 300 Lorne Street, to support those affected by the fires.
Information can be found at:
For evacuation alerts and orders, visit Emergency Info BC.
For road closures and conditions, visit DriveBC.
For wildfires of note, visit the B.C. Wildfire Service.
For air quality advisories, check with Environment Canada.
Donations and Volunteering:
Questions and answers about air quality during the wild fires
How close are the fires to Kamloops?
The major wildfires in the BC Interior are more than 100 km away from Kamloops. Despite this distance, the fires have periodically affected air quality.
How long will the fires affect air quality?
The current air quality issue is temporary. The BC Forest Service is actively working to extinguish the forest fires. We are confident that air quality issues will be fully resolved by the beginning of the Fall term.
Changes in air quality are often dependent on changes in wind, temperature, rain, and other environmental factors.
What about indoor air quality at TRU?
Thompson Rivers University has taken measures to maintain optimal air quality within the buildings by adjusting the HVAC systems. Indoor air quality testing has also been initiated to better understand what further steps can be taken to improve and optimize indoor air quality.
Do I need to stay indoors?
Since the start of the fires there have been some air quality advisories recommending that at risk individuals (seniors, infants and those with respiratory difficulties) stay indoors and avoid strenuous activities. Most people in Kamloops are going about their daily routines. They are still biking, walking and working outdoors.
How to I protect myself?
To protect yourself from possible poor air quality, it is best to access the current risk level, and follow the advice provided by the Government of Canada.
For Faculty and Staff
Evacuation Support Update, July 20, 2017
As wildfires across BC continue to have a traumatic impact on our communities, the Thompson Nicola Regional District (TNRD), BC Emergency Social Services (ESS) and several other agencies continue to work together at the Emergency Social Service (ESS) Reception Centre at the Sandman Centre to support those affected by the fires.
Donations
Visit the TNRD Donations and Lodging page on Facebook to connect with people who have/need items and those who have/need lodging.
Cash donations to the Red Cross BC Fires Appeal are a good way to support disaster relief. You can also donate to the Kamloops Food Bank, which is collecting food and hygiene items. See this list by Kamloops This Week on more ways to contribute.
Volunteering
Volunteering opportunities on your own time may be available through the TNRD Volunteer Connections - 2017 Wildfire Group on Facebook.
Air Quality
Air quality advisories for Kamloops are available from Environment Canada. Today's Smoky Skies Bulletin has more information on wildfire smoke.
Due to the ongoing wildfires in British Columbia, Kamloops is experiencing very high levels of smoke from prevailing winds from the west.
In response to the decreased air outside quality, Thompson Rivers University has taken measures to maintain optimal air quality within the buildings by adjusting the HVAC systems. Indoor air quality testing has also been initiated to better understand what further steps can be taken to improve and optimize indoor air quality.
Employees can help maintain indoor air quality within their respective work areas by ensuring all doors and windows are kept closed as much as possible. Using electronic door opening mechanisms only when absolutely necessary also helps reduce infiltration of smoke in to buildings.
Employees are encouraged to inform their supervisors if they have any respiratory issues or feel unwell in any way. Contact the Office of Safety and Emergency Management at Local 5139 or safetyofficer@tru.ca with any additional questions or concerns regarding air quality at TRU.
About the Air Quality Health Index
Closures
While Kamloops classes and Enrolment Services are open, the TRU Williams Lake campus and regional centre at 100 Mile House remain closed until further notice. Our thoughts are with students, colleagues, family and friends affected by the wildfires in the Cariboo.
If you have any questions or concerns, email: fireresponse@tru.ca
Dear TRU Student,
As I am sure you are aware, Thompson Rivers University is in the midst of supporting evacuees from areas affected by wildfires. We are shocked by the impact these fires are having on our communities, our students and their families. The magnitude of the damage to the region, and the tragic impact on its residents, are beyond what most of us can even imagine. Our thoughts are with those impacted during what must be an extremely difficult time. We will provide updates on the current situation for students on this site.
At this time, the TRU Williams Lake campus as well as the TRU 100 Mile House Regional Centre remain closed.
TRU’s Kamloops campus and other regional centres remain open and classes in these locations remain in session. We encourage you to make appropriate arrangements with your instructors if transportation, health, family or other challenges are affecting your studies. If you require support in making arrangements, please contact the Office of Student Affairs at studentaffairs@tru.ca. Personal counselling is also available to students in Kamloops (Room OM 1631).
If you are an Open Learning student who has been affected by the wildfires and are concerned about your studies, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us. We’re here to support you. Send us an email or phone 1-800-663-9711.
When you joined Thompson Rivers University, you became part of a connected and caring educational community. Your continued well-being and success are important to us, and we are committed to supporting you as you continue your journey to seek, find and live your full potential.
Please get in touch whenever you’re ready. Our very best to you and your family.
Sincerely yours,
Christine Adam
Dean of Students
Phone: 250-371-5860 | Email: cadam@tru.ca
Cell: 778-220-0546
