The Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency is providing some tips for wildfire evacuees that are returning to their homes.

Although an exciting and emotional time, the return to a home community can also come with some challenges. Evacuees are reminded to wait for official clearance before re-entering and prepare themselves to feel grief and loss. They are advised to watch for hazards such as debris, fallen trees or damaged roads and stay at least 10 metres away from downed power lines to ensure their safety.

Home safety checks are an important part of getting resituated, as well. This includes having utilities inspected by professionals before turning them on, assessing the home’s structural safety, and testing and replacing smoke and carbon monoxide alarms as needed. Spoiled food should be thrown out immediately, and damages should be documented for insurance claims. Well water must be tested before it’s consumed.

There are currently 60 active wildfires in Saskatchewan, 11 of which are not contained. Twelve communities are currently under an evacuation order. These include the  Resort Subdivision of Lac La Plonge, La Plonge Reserve, Northern Village of Beauval, Northern Hamlet of Jans Bay, Resort Subdivision of Ramsey Bay, Patuanak/English River First Nation, Montreal Lake Cree Nation, Northern Village of Pinehouse, Canoe Lake Cree First Nation/Canoe Narrows, Île-à-la-Crosse, Northern Hamlet of Cole Bay and Resort Subdivision of Little Amyot Lake.