Responding to an emergency situation, such as a wildfire, may be as simple as knowing who to talk to and where to go, but preparing a detailed emergency plan and “grab-and-go” emergency kits for you or your family can help reduce the stress you may feel during these intense events.
If a wildfire threatens your home, you may need to leave quickly. Preparing emergency kits with this basic list will get you started:
- Food and water
- Phone charger and battery bank
- Battery-powered or hand-crank flashlight and radio
- Small first aid kit and an emergency blanket
- Toiletries, medications and other personal items, like an extra pair of glasses or contact lenses
- Your emergency plan and copies of important documents, like your insurance
- Spare seasonal clothing and footwear
You can then customize the kits to meet the needs of each person in your household, such as prescription medications, books, activities or other comfort items.
BC Wildfire Service
You can use the BC Wildfire Service website or smart device app to report wildfires or irresponsible behaviour that could start a wildfire, review fire danger and evacuation notices and more.
BC Wildfire Service Website: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/safety/wildfire-status
App for Android users: https://ow.ly/5wTz50OOnka
App for Apple users: https://ow.ly/C2Hh50OOnkb
NOTE: At the time of posting, Vanderhoof is currently under an “Extreme Fire Danger” rating; however, the BC Wildfire Service has not issued evacuation alerts or orders for the region.
