Residents living in areas under Evacuation Alert are being reminded to take steps now to ensure they, their families, pets, and neighbours are ready should an Evacuation Order be issued.

An Evacuation Alert means residents should prepare now.

While people are not required to leave during an Alert, conditions can change quickly. If an Evacuation Order is issued while residents are away from home at work, or elsewhere, they will not be able to return to their property, as the priority is moving people safely out of the Order area.

“Preparedness is one of the most important things residents can do to support both their own safety, the safety of the community and the broader emergency response,” said Loree Duczek, Regional Emergency Operations Centre Information Officer.

“Taking the time now to make a household plan, check in with neighbours, and know what you will do if an Evacuation Order is issued while you are away from your home can make a significant difference.”

Residents in Evacuation Alert areas are encouraged to make a plan for everyone in their household. This includes confirming if anyone at home has access to a vehicle, whether they are able to leave the area on short notice, and if work or transportation arrangements may affect the household’s ability to respond quickly.

Households should also consider whether someone can work from home, and how family members will communicate if they are separated.

Planning for pets and livestock is also essential. Residents should identify where pets can go if an Evacuation Order is issued, including if neighbours, friends, or family outside the Alert area may be able to help. Pet supplies, carriers, leashes, medications, and vaccination records should be ready to go and positioned by a main exit.

Community preparedness is just as important as individual preparedness. Residents are encouraged to check in on neighbours, particularly seniors, people with mobility challenges, or anyone who may need assistance preparing to leave. A simple conversation now can help ensure no one is left without a plan.

Residents should also consider the following preparedness steps:

• Keep a grab-and-go bag ready and, if possible, take it with you when leaving home.
• Ask your employer if there is a place to store emergency supplies while at work.
• Keep important documents with you, store them outside the Alert area, or back them up digitally.
• Pre-arrange a reunification location for household members outside the Alert area.
• Move recreational vehicles, boats, trailers, and other mobile assets outside the Alert area where possible.
• Store important or sentimental items in a safe location outside the Alert area.

An Evacuation Alert means: Prepare Now.

An Evacuation Order means: Go Now.

If an Evacuation Order is issued, residents must leave the affected area immediately and follow the directions of local authorities and emergency personnel. Once an Order is in place, you cannot re-enter and access into the Order area will be restricted to protect public safety.

For more information on how to prepare your household, build an emergency plan, and create grab-and-go bags, visit beprepared.bc.ca or call the information line at 250-426-2188.

RDEK

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