Wildfire Preparedness

Know What To Do...

• 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. Don't forget a plan for your pets!
  • 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. View this Wildfire Preparedness Checklist!
  • Ensure any wildfire sprinklers installed are not connected to the municipal water system, and are in compliance with RDNO Wildfire Sprinkler Requirements. 
  • 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 or ranch, have a plan in place for livestock and animals.
    • Small Mixed Farm Guide
    • Farm Workbook
    • Livestock Relocation
  • Keep your vehicle fueled.
• During A Wildfire

  • Monitor Alertable or the RDNO website and be prepared to evacuate at any time. If told to evacuate, do so.
  • Move all combustibles inside or 10m away from the house, including firewood, tools, BBQ and propane tanks, doormats, construction debris and lawn furniture. Leave garden hoses connected but turned off and pulled away from the house
  • Ensure all opening like windows, doors, skylights vents, access panels are securely closed. 
  • Leave a light on to illuminate your address and house. 
  • A non-combustible ladder can be left out on the lawn to help provide firefighters quick access to your roof. 
• 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.