Know the Risks
Wildfires and Floods are the most common reasons for major organized evacuations in our region. Know the difference between an Evacuation Alert (Get Ready) and an Evacuation Order (Leave Now).
Evacuation Alert
- Locate all family members
- Gather essential items such as medications, eyeglasses, phone chargers, valuable papers (i.e. insurance), immediate care needs for all, and, if you choose, keepsakes (photographs, etc). Have these items readily available for quick departure
- Prepare to move any disabled persons and/or children. Consider helping neighbours who may need assistance.
- Keep gas tank full
- Move pets and livestock to a safe area
- Arrange to transport your household members
- Arrange accommodation for your family with family and friends
- Monitor news sources (radio and social media) for information on evacuation orders and locations of Reception Centres
Evacuation Order
- Locate all family members.
- Pack essential items into vehicle
- Unplug all unnecessary appliances and take sensitive equipment like computers with you.
- Pack family members and neighbours needing transportation into vehicle
- Keep gas tank full
- Take portable pets with you
- Follow evacuation order route to reception centre
- Register family and access any assistance provided. Make sure you provide contact number for information updates
- Contact your insurance company to start the claim process – do not wait – insurance may provide assistance for you while you are evacuated, not just afterwards for your home
- Monitor news sources (radio & social media) for information on evacuation areas, information sessions and potential for safe return to home
Make a Plan
- Pack your Grab ‘n Go bag now – everything you need to survive
- Make a list of everything important that you would want to take with you in an evacuation and get them packed up and ready to go
- Take pictures of your home, yard and all rooms/building interiors for insurance should you need it
- Park vehicle for easy escape. If you have a camper or trailer, get it loaded and ready to go – this may become your home away from home
- Create a To-Do checklist of all the things you would need to do to prepare your home for a longer vacation away. Practice getting ready to follow through so you know it all works
- Add specifics to your checklist as you think of them
