Emergency resources in multiple languages
Last updated on July 23, 2024Find emergency guides and resources in multiple languages. This includes downloadable guides and fill-in-the-blank plans to help you get ready for emergencies that can happen in B.C.
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Emergencies in B.C.
There are services to manage emergencies in B.C. like:
When emergencies happen, the government will reduce the impact on people and support their recovery by providing:
- Resources
- Safety measures
- Essential services
Learn more about the hazards in your community and explore the interactive map.
Prepare for emergencies
Prepare for an emergency with guides and resources.
Make your emergency plan
Create your emergency plan to protect yourself and the people your live with. Fill-in-the-blank guides and an interactive plan builder are available.
Prepare an emergency kit
Learn how to build an emergency kit and grab-and-go bag. An emergency kit will keep you safe at home during an emergency. A grab-and-go bag is something you can take with you if you have to leave home quickly.
Be prepared for an evacuation
Make sure you have home or tenant insurance. Your insurance provider will likely provide coverage for living expenses during an evacuation.
If you require basic supports like accommodation, food or other temporary supports, you may be eligible for Emergency Support Services (ESS).
Create an ESS profile now to make it easier to access supports during an evacuation.
To create a profile:
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Visit ess.gov.bc.ca
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Follow the instructions for preparing for an evacuation
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Create a profile using the BC Services Card login
If you are evacuated, log into your profile. You will receive information on how to receive supports.
Find more guides and resources
Find more guides and resources to prepare for emergencies:
- Downloadable guides
- Guides for specific hazards
- Guides for certain situations, including resources for people with disabilities
Additional information
WelcomeBC
WelcomeBC provides tips on how to prepare for an emergency.
Some of this information is available in multiple languages in the B.C. Newcomers' Guide.
Definitions
Wildfires
Big fires that spread quickly through forests. Sometimes they can cause fires in towns and cities
Floods
Happen when a lot of water covers land due to heavy rains and melting snow. It is not safe to be in a place that is flooding
Earthquakes
Happen when the ground suddenly shakes. The shaking may cause damage to buildings and the environment
Tsunamis
Large waves in the ocean or lakes that can cause damage by flooding land
Pandemic
When a disease spreads across many countries
Evacuation
When people are told to temporarily move from a place that is not safe to a place that is safe. The government may tell people to evacuate certain areas during an emergency like wildfires or floods
Drought information and resources
Droughts lead to reduced water availability and are a recurring feature of climate change.