Evacuation order lifted for Stanley Mission

After many days of being away from home, about 2,000 residents of a northern Saskatchewan community are going home.

An evacuation order for Stanley Mission ended Sunday night. Buses are now being arranged to take people home Monday from La Ronge, Prince Albert and Saskatoon.

The evacuation of the town started Wednesday.

Tristen Charles and her baby have been staying at a hotel in Prince Albert.

“I can’t wait to go home, see my dad and relax in my own bed,” she said.

Last week, residents of the town were forced to leave due to the encroaching McCafe wildfire. Looking back on what it was like having to suddenly pick up and leave, Charles said it was very stressful.

“It was hard having to sit in a vehicle and having your baby cry and not knowing where you are going or what’s happening,” she said.

Chenay McKenzie and her four-month-old son have also been staying in a hotel, and she also expressed her excitement to return home.

“It’s been a long few days staying here. It’s been tough,” she said.

According to a Facebook post from Lac La Ronge Indian Band (LLRIB) Chief Tammy Cook-Searson, the fire is 80 per cent contained and not considered a threat to the community. Smoke is also not expected in the community.

Fire crews say they are still working on the blaze. The La Ronge Regional Fire Department got support from the LLRIB, the Stanley Mission Council, the Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency, the Red Cross and the Prince Albert Grand Council.