**Update**
Interior Health confirms that planning work was undertaken to ensure the ability to respond in the event of a risk to the life and safety of residents in care.
At this time, IH said there will be no further evacuations of residents.
As the fire situation in Williams Lake has stabilized, Interior Health said a dedicated team will lead the planning work of repatriating residents home.
Repatriation will occur gradually and carefully to ensure appropriate staffing and resources are in place when residents return home.
**Original story**
Responding to the potential for fire-related impacts to health facilities and clients due to the River Valley wildfire in Williams Lake, Interior Health has taken a precautionary measure.
In a release Interior Health said 21 residents from Cariboo Place long-term care home have been relocated to alternate locations away from the impacted area.
“Staff from Cariboo Place have been contacting families directly and providing updates on location of their loved ones.” IH said, “For any families looking for further information on their loved ones, they may call 778-417-0275 or 780-399-6570.”
The Cariboo Memorial Hospital is not impacted at this time, anyone requiring care should proceed to the hospital as needed.
Regular hours for the hospital are 24 hours, seven days a week.
Interior Health also said they are working with all community clients to make plans for them to have access to the services they need should they need to evacuate.
“This is an evolving situation and we are working closely with municipalities, regional districts, and BC Wildfire Service to ensure precautions are underway to protect patients, clients, and individuals in long-term care,” Interior Health said.
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