Following the fire that ravaged over 42,000 hectares in less than two weeks in the Gironde region, several public figures are calling for support for residents, emergency services, and the local economy. Guillaume Canet has promoted fundraising efforts by three major charities, while Jérémy Frérot is urging vacationers not to abandon the Arcachon Basin.
Guillaume Canet salutes the firefighters, volunteers and farmers
In a video posted on Instagram on Sunday, Guillaume Canet paid tribute to all those who fought the flames. "I was moved, deeply affected and full of admiration for the work that the professional and volunteer firefighters did to fight these flames, but also for the volunteers and farmers who came in droves from all over France to lend a hand.""The actor said. Deeply attached to the Gironde region, which he has frequented for 35 years, Guillaume Canet also expressed his thoughts to the residents affected by the fire and to those forced to leave their homes."
An appeal for donations to help the victims and rescue workers
The actor relayed appeals for donations from the Red Cross, the Fondation de France, and Secours Populaire. These organizations are providing water, food, headlamps, and phone chargers to people staying in shelters. They are also assisting residents during evacuations and supporting emergency services. Guillaume Canet specified that they can help the fire and rescue services (SDIS) and the emergency medical service (SAMU) treat injured firefighters. The associations are also assisting those affected with administrative procedures and their dealings with insurance companies.
"The Fondation de France is also committed to raising awareness among the local population about potential events or other disasters that could recur in the future, since we know that with global warming, for example, we are at risk of that."the comedian added.
He concluded his message by encouraging his followers to participate in the fundraising efforts. : "I've been coming to this region for 35 years, and I love the whole region. If you, like me, would like to help, please feel free to support one of these three associations, or others if you wish."
Jérémy Frérot fears the collapse of tourism
Originally from Gironde, Jérémy Frérot also spoke to thank the firefighters and farmers who were still mobilized. "My thoughts are with the firefighters and all the farmers who have worked and are still working to stop this infernal machine, which, I think, unfortunately, will become an annual occurrence."the singer said.
Jérémy Frérot particularly raised concerns about the exodus of tourists following the fires. Many visitors have cancelled or shortened their holidays, raising fears of significant losses for businesses in the Arcachon Bay area. « "With these forest fires, the tourists have left. And we, here in the Arcachon basin, are suffering the consequences.", he explained.
"The beaches are free to access."
The singer assures that vacationers can return to the accessible areas of the Arcachon Basin. He points out that roads and public transport are functioning again, including the TER regional train line. : "I see all these people who work here are very scared, so here is my message to everyone who wants to come and enjoy this beautiful place that is the Arcachon Basin: there's still August to come and enjoy our region. The TER train line has been reopened."
Jérémy Frérot also emphasizes the need to reopen beaches and main roads. : "The beaches, our magnificent beaches, are free to access, as is the motorway. You can come without any problem and bring a little comfort to these people who work so that you can have a wonderful holiday. We are all waiting for you."
A local economy weakened after the fire
Beyond the destruction caused by the fire, tourism professionals now fear a sharp drop in business during August. Hotels, campsites, restaurants, shops, and leisure providers are heavily dependent on summer visitors. The appeals from Guillaume Canet and Jérémy Frérot thus pursue two immediate priorities: funding aid for those affected and supporting the sectors of the Arcachon Basin that remain open to the public.
