As the weather gets warmer, the BC government says you should be prepared for climate emergencies.
Warmer and drier conditions are expected to increase the risk of wildfires and longer droughts across the province.
Several wildfires are recorded currently, including one west of Port Alberni and another east of Powell River. The province has found that a low snowpack, early snowmelt, and warm weather forecasts do point to a possibly elevated drought this summer.
Minister of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness Kelly Greene says they will be ready to support communities in the event of an emergency.
“I urge people to take action now to increase their household preparedness,” said Greene.
The province says you need to prepare grab-and-go bags, build an emergency and evacuation plan, and to be ready to leave your home on short notice if you’re under evacuation alert. Under an evacuation alert, you’re asked to listen to local emergency officials to know more about the situation.
If you’re under an evacuation order, leave the area immediately, follow directions from emergency officials, evacuate by following identified routes, and do not return home until you’ve been told the order is removed.
For wildfires, you need to be aware of fire dangers, and to report a local wildfire by calling *5555.
For droughts, you are encouraged to stay informed, plan ahead, and conserve as much water as possible.
