The Canadian Red Cross says the desire for Maritimers to lend a hand to those impacted by the disastrous wildfires in Fort McMurray, Alb., has been tremendous.
“I think with Atlantic Canadians, who've always been generous, I think you'll see a different level of generosity this go around,” said Bill Lawlor with the Canadian Red Cross.
Lawlor says relief volunteers from Saint John and the rest of New Brunswick are ready to go and on standby, but have not yet received a request for help.
“Given the scope of this response, we expect we'll be asked to provide support as we have in the past,” said Lawlor.
The Canadian Red Cross is asking people to steer away from donating items right now.
“Sending money will help the local responders purchase exactly what is required, because that's the other thing that happens – people send things they think may be needed when they're not needed at all,” said Lawlor.
New Brunswick Public Safety Minister Stephen Horsman says many are desperate to help out.
“We have got a lot of calls from fire departments and first responders in our province, wondering if they can help out,” said Horsman.
While keeping an eye on any forest fire threats in the province, the New Brunswick Forest Fire Watch centre is also preparing for any calls of help.
“Most of the requests will go in and filled by crews who are closer or whatever province is asking for help,” said wildfire prevention officer Roger Collett.
The New Brunswick government says it must wait for the help to be requested to ensure its sending the right kind.
“When the call is needed, we'll be ready for them,” said Horsman. “At this time we've had no calls for service to go out.”
Nova Scotia Premier Stephen McNeil agrees.
“If they're required that will come through an ask from Winnipeg, the firefighting organization there, who will actually co-ordinate that across the country,” said McNeil.
The current goal is to make sure the right kind of help is reaching those who need it the most.
With files from CTV Atlantic’s Nick Moore.
