Wildfire

A wildfire event

• Before a wildfire

  • Prepare an emergency kit with enough supplies for at least three days.
  • Have an emergency plan so you will know what to do if you are affected by a wildfire and in case you are separated during an evacuation.
  • Visit FireSmartBC on how to protect your property i.e. check for, and remove, fire hazards in and around your home, such as dried out branches, leaves and debris.
  • Keep a good sprinkler in an accessible location.
  • Ensure that your family knows where your gas, electric, and water main shut-off controls are located and how to safely shut them down in an emergency.
  • Have fire drills with your family on a regular basis. Practice an escape plan so that all members of the family know how to get out of the house quickly and safely. And make sure all family members are familiar with the technique of "STOP, DROP, AND ROLL" in case of clothes catching on fire.
  • Maintain first-aid supplies to treat the injured until help arrives.
  • Make sure every floor and all sleeping areas have smoke detectors.
  • If you are on a farm/ranch, sheltering livestock may be the wrong thing to do because a wildfire could trap animals inside, causing them to burn alive. Leaving animals unsheltered is preferable, or if time and personal safety permits, evacuation away from the danger zone should be considered.
  • Keep your vehicle fueled.
• During a wildfire

  • Be prepared to evacuate at any time. If told to evacuate, do so.
  • Monitor local radio stations for up-to-date information on the fire and possible road closures.
  • Park your car, positioned forward out of the driveway. Keep car windows closed and have your valuables ready to be packed in your car should you need to evacuate. 
  • If you do not evacuate, close all windows and doors in the house to reduce smoke and debris entering your home. Follow instructions on how to minimize fire damage. 
  • Move all combustibles away from the house, including firewood and lawn furniture. Move any propane barbeques into the open, away from structures.
• After a wildfire

  • Continue to take precautions and listen to and follow directions from local authorities.
  • Only re-enter your home if you are authorized by officials to do so.
  • Use caution when entering burned areas because there may still be hazards, including hot spots, which can flare up without warning.
  • Ensure your food and water is safe. Discard any food that may have been exposed to heat, smoke or soot and do not use water that may be contaminated. 
  • Take an inventory and photos of ruined furniture, appliances, books, etc. for insurance purposes and keep all receipts related to living expenses, repairs, etc.
  • Contact your insurance company, if necessary. 
  • Wear protective gear, including boots, safety glasses and rubber gloves when cleaning up.
  • Household items often take several cleanings to be rid of smoke odours, soot and stains. 
  • Experiencing a disaster is challenging enough, but during the COVID-19 pandemic it can feel even more difficult. The Canadian Red Cross has many resources available to help you navigate these challenging times. You can also find mental and emotional wellbeing resources on the Public Health Agency of Canada, or any provincial/territorial health authority website.