Many wildfires in BC occur far from cities and towns, but sometimes they threaten homes, businesses and infrastructure.
Help keep your family safe by knowing what to do before, during and after a wildfire. You should also develop your emergency plan, put together your grab-and go-bags and know the difference between an evacuation alert and order.
What to do Before a Wildfire
Prevention
Nearly half of all wildfires in B.C. are caused by human carelessness. You can prevent them by following a few simple rules.
- Check for bans and restrictions.
- Camp responsibly.
- Campfires can’t be larger than 0.5 m by 0.5 m.
- Keep a shovel and water nearby to extinguish your fire.
- Create a firebreak around your fire.
- Never leave a campfire unattended.
- Ensure your campfire is completely out and the ashes cool to touch before you leave the area.
Personal and property preparedness
- Ensure your home insurance is up-to-date and includes adequate coverage for fire damage.
- Pull together grab-and-go bags for each member of your household in case you have to leave quickly.
- Make sure your emergency plan is up to date. Review it with members of your household.
- Protect your property by completing a risk assessment in BC’s FireSmart Manual.
What to do During a Wildfire
Officials will only issue an evacuation order if it is unsafe for you to remain in your home. You can evacuate your home at any time if you feel in danger. Learn more about:
What to do After a Wildfire
- If you are evacuated, only return home when authorities say it’s safe to do so. Stay out of damaged buildings as hazards may still exist.
- Wildfire activity may increase the likelihood for natural landslides and flooding. Learn about the warning signs by reviewing how to recognize Landslide and Flooding Risks.