Confusion over B.C. Emergency Services website as thousands search for info amid evacuations

British Columbianspushed from their homes by ongoing wildfires have reported confusion when they're trying to reach B.C.'s Emergency Social Services (ESS) website, but the province has said it's simply a mix-up with the web address.

For years, the site was at ess.bc.ca. However, the province said the site has changed its URL and itcan be found here.

ESS is in place to support British Columbians during or in wake of emergencies in the province. The site directs evacuees to reception centres and group lodging facilities, where they'll receive information, supplies and help in planning their eventual return home.

The service is usually offered for up to three days following anemergency. According to Emergency Management B.C., the URL was changed "a few years ago," but in some areas, the old address still appears to be circulating.

There is also confusion around evacuee registration with the Canadian Red Cross as the organization deals with technical difficulties withits onlinesystem.

Displaced residents are being advisedto register by phone.