Get prepared for a wildfire
Last updated on February 23, 2024
The government employs skilled personnel to detect, monitor and respond to an average of 1,600 wildfires per year in British Columbia. When wildfires burn away from houses or infrastructure, they can have ecological benefits. At other times, they can threaten homes, businesses, and vital infrastructure.
Climate change and wildfires
The chance of a damaging wildfire has increased in recent years, due in part to hotter and drier summer conditions caused by climate change. Wildfires can affect topography and soil stability (PDF), contributing to flooding and landslides. Read about how B.C. is preparing for and adapting to climate change.
Stages of a wildfire
Many people live in an area at risk of a wildfire, so it’s important that to take time to get prepared for one. Understand what to do before, during and after a wildfire:
Get prepared
There are a number of things you can do to prevent or prepare for a wildfire.
Stay safe
Stay safe during a wildfire by knowing your trusted sources of information, understanding evacuation stages, and looking out for your health and safety.
Recover
Returning home after a wildfire can be overwhelming, so it's important to use caution and take things one step at a time.
Wildfire preparedness guide
This guide will help you prepare your household, protect your property and learn what to do if a wildfire is close to your community.
Wildfire preparedness guide (PDF, 4MB)
For more information or inquiries about this guide, please contact us at PreparedBC@gov.bc.ca.
