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Emergency Planning Starts at Home
Emergency planning isn’t just about protecting your house—it’s about keeping your loved ones safe and supported when the unexpected happens. Whether it’s a wildfire, flood, power outage, or severe storm, having a plan in place helps you stay calm and take action when it matters most.
Taking a little time now to think through possible emergencies, create a family plan, and gather essential supplies can make a big difference. Aim to be ready to manage on your own for at least 72 hours. That means having food, water, medications, flashlights, and anything else your family (including pets!) might need. It’s all about being prepared, staying connected, and protecting what matters most—each other.
Make a Plan, Stay Connected
Having a clear emergency plan helps everyone in your household know what to do, where to go, and who to contact when something unexpected happens. Involve the whole family—kids included—so everyone feels confident and prepared. Review your plan regularly and keep printed copies in easy-to-find places, like your home emergency kit, your vehicle, or even your wallet.
But don’t stop at your front door—your neighbours are an important part of your emergency network. In many situations, they’re the first ones who can lend a hand. Take time now to build those connections. Host a casual BBQ, chat over the fence, or connect through local groups like neighbourhood associations or strata councils.
Talk about the kinds of emergencies that could happen in your area, who might need extra help, and how you can support each other. Assign simple roles—like checking on nearby homes, sharing updates, or helping with pets—so everyone knows how they can pitch in. A little planning and a strong sense of community can go a long way when it matters most.
Click on the links below for emergency plan information from the Province of British Columbia:
These Tips have been compiled from real people in the Okanagan that lost their homes in recent years due to wildfire:
During an emergency, services we rely on—like running water, electricity, refrigeration, and phone or cell service—may be unavailable. Having a 72 hour emergency kit with enough food, water, and basic supplies can help your household stay safe and comfortable during disruptions.
Basic supplies may include a phone charger or portable battery pack, copies of important documents, cash, personal items such as contacts or glasses, etc.
Some emergencies allow time for an evacuation alert, but others may require you to leave immediately. Prepare a grab-and-go bag with essentials and keep it in a convenient spot, like your front closet, vehicle or workplace, so you can act quickly if needed. Review and update it regularly to keep supplies fresh and relevant.
Click on the image below to be redirected to a video prepared by Red Dragon Consulting full of useful information and helpful tips on how to get prepared for emergencies.
The links below contain additional information to assist in making your emergency plan: