The growing number of illegal migrants entering the country through the community of Emerson has put a definite strain on local emergency responders and services.

Since the beginning of 2017 the Emerson community has seen twenty to thirty migrants on average cross the border illegally into their community before being picked up by local RCMP, and taken to the Canadian port of entry to be processed.

"In the last couple of months we have definitely seen an increase in our call volumes due to the influx of refugees, which has put a strain on our budget and system. However, we have not received any calls in the last week and we are hoping it stays that way," said Emerson Fire Chief Jeff French.

French continued by explaining that the line of communication between the Emergency Services team, Reeve Greg Janzen, Regional Health Authority the Federal government and others like CBSA is strong and that he is optimistic they will replace some of the costs lost in this situation and send more resources if and when needed, noting most of the calls they have received were mainly for hypothermia and frostbite of the individuals crossing illegally.

"Going forward we are keeping the line of communication open. We had a good meeting Wednesday morning with Southern Health and we are going to watch as it unfolds. Southern Health is ready and willing to help with resources if they need to, we are not going to make any fast moves or decisions keeping things status quo for now," said French.

French continued by saying there is a chance of land flooding in the near future affecting the individuals attempting to cross illegally and the expected calls for emergency services during that time, noting they are aware of the possibilities and that the Emerson emergency services team has a plan in place if needed.