Forestry Minister Lisa Dempster is urging people to follow official channels when it comes to accurate updates on the current fire situation.
Dempster remarked on the misinformation being spread through social media, from speculation on how the fires are being started, to what residents can and cannot do.
She says people are facing great anxiety worrying about their properties and their future and the misinformation isn’t helping.
She says there are posts and comments being shared that are doing nothing to help people on the Bay de Verde Peninsula many “who (through surveillance cameras) are watching their homes being burned, it’s a terrible, devastating time.” She says people sharing information who don’t know whether it’s true or not, are not helping.
‘We saw goodness in humanity’ during recent visit to Carbonear says Dempster
Minister Dempster and Premier John Hogan met with displaced residents in Carbonear yesterday. She says people are distressed and scared, but they also witnessed an outpouring of kindness and humanity.
“We saw the goodness in humanity that always rises to the surface in the most challenging of times. We saw it again and again. We went into rooms that were stocked so full of clothing, bins and bins of it, that was new clothing that came from businesses. Even the pet room that a call went out for food and there is more than an abundance of food.”
Safety Minister urging visitors to stay away from Bay de Verde Peninsula for time being
Public Safety Minister is urging people who don’t live in the area to stay away from the Bay de Verde Peninsula.
John Haggie says many evacuees are gathering in Carbonear where an emergency shelter has been set up at Carbonear Academy, where volunteers are attending to their needs.
He says emergency shelters are a place to sleep, a place to eat, and music and entertainment are provided to help people pass the time and feel less anxious. He says staff are also printing out necessary information for those having difficulty with phone and internet service.
Health and mental health officials are also available.
In the meantime, Haggie is asking those who don’t live in the area not to visit at this time.
“If you are on the peninsula and do not live there, go home. This is not the time for casual visits, sightseeing, tourism or sports and festivals.”
