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Power outage tips to keep yourself (and the food in your fridge) safe
We’ve all experienced power outages at some point in our lives and it’s likely been very frustrating or inconvenient. Even five minutes without power can feel like a long time without internet or lights, while worrying about the food in the fridge we don’t want going to waste. Keeping in mind that power outages can happen…
Categories: Preparedness
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Get prepared for emergencies on a budget
Emergencies can happen at any time, and it is important to be prepared. Planning ahead and being ready for an emergency is a worthwhile investment, and when done over time, can fit into most budgets. Dollar stores, garage sales, thrift stores and online marketplaces are great places to find items for your emergency kit and grab-and-go bags. Here…
Categories: Preparedness
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Protect yourself from wildfire smoke
Climate change is increasing the risk of wildfires. Depending on weather patterns, British Columbia can be impacted by smoke from wildfires not only from within B.C. but from other provinces and countries. It is important to know how to protect yourself and your loved ones from the effects of wildfire smoke as it can be…
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Do you know what to do if you receive a BC Emergency Alert?
In B.C., emergency alerts are broadcast on TV, radio and cell phones to provide urgent public safety information during potentially life-threatening emergencies. Many of us are familiar with the unique vibration and alert tone associated with emergency alerts thanks to system tests that take place twice a year. But do you know what to do…
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Benefits of creating an ESS profile online
When the unexpected happens, like having to evacuate your home because of wildfire nearby, you may find yourself needing financial support to meet your basic needs in those first 72 hours. The good news is there are steps you can take now to help reduce your stress should something like that happen – including creating…
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Five preparedness tips for people living in apartments, condos or townhomes
Do you live in an apartment, condominium or townhome? Well, you’re not alone! Half of all people in British Columbia live in some form of multi-unit residential building. When it comes to emergency preparedness, however, living in a multi-unit building can come with some unique challenges. While the fundamentals of emergency preparedness are the same…
Categories: Preparedness
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New and improved B.C. Wildfire Dashboard
Spring is in the air and summer is on the horizon! People have different ideas of what activities they will be planning – camping, swimming, hiking and travelling to name a few – but what we all have in common is the hope to enjoy those plans while staying safe, wherever we may be. Thanks…
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Making a home emergency plan is easy!
Emergencies can happen anytime, whether you’re at home, at work or on the road. Hopefully you won’t ever need it, but having a completed home emergency plan can make all the difference by keeping you and your loved ones calm, connected and safe. Your home emergency plan should include the contact information of your loved…
Categories: Preparedness
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Enhance your garden and safety by choosing FireSmart plants
Spring has sprung and many of us are excited to get outside to work on our yards, visit local garden centres and start planting. Did you know that spring garden work can reduce your wildfire risk? It’s true, even small steps can make your property more FireSmart, like: While there are no fire-proof plants, there…
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Emergency Preparedness Week 2024: Using technology to enhance preparedness
Recognizing the major role technology plays in our lives, as well as how it’s used for emergency management, this year’s theme for Emergency Preparedness Week in B.C. is “using technology before, during and after emergencies.” What is Emergency Preparedness Week? Emergency Preparedness Week is a nationally recognized week that occurs every year during the first…
Categories: Preparedness
Emergency Management & Climate Readiness Blog