FORT ST. JOHN -- Some evacuees fleeing wildfires burning in Fort Nelson say they are being asked to leave their hotel rooms, and even having their credit cards double billed.

Over 3000 people have already received support from Emergency Reception Centres established in Fort St. John, Dawson Creek, and Chetwynd.

2500 of those in Fort St. John alone, according to Information Officer, Ryan Harvey.

“The majority of evacuees in Fort St. John were able to be accommodated in the hotels they were in previously, and if not, they were found additional accommodations for the renewal period,” said Harvey.

The city is currently working with evacuees to renew services and hotel vouchers until May 21st.

Harvey says evacuees receive vouchers for hotel stays, but are asked to put a credit card down for incidentals.

“It is really a case-by-case basis, and unfortunately, impacting a small percentage of the population but certainly something that we’re dealing with here,” said Harvey.

Some evacuees have been asked to leave their hotel rooms to make way for previous reservations that are putting hotels over capacity.

Others say they were kicked out because of hotel policy surrounding pets.

The Emergency Reception Centre will be open from 10:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m. until Friday to assist those impacted.

A public information meeting took place today at the North Peace Arena for evacuees from the Fort Nelson area.

The community of about 4700 people has been under evacuation order since last Friday in response to the out-of-control Parker Lake blaze, while a second, larger fire has flared up in a remote area northwest of the town.

Conditions had been favourable overnight, but the latest from the BC Wildfire Service says there's potential for gusty winds this afternoon.

Evacuees seeking help, including for meal and shelter vouchers, are being asked to register online at ess.gov.bc.ca or at the following emergency reception centres:

  • Fort St. John: North Peace Arena (9805-96 Ave.)
  • Dawson Creek: Sudeten Hall, Walter Wright Pioneer Village (1901 Alaska Hwy.)
  • Chetwynd: City Hall (5400 Hospital Rd.)
  • Prince George: Exhibition Grounds near the CN Centre (41 Keller St.)