Emergency Preparedness Information Links

DISASTER FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE (updated Jan 8, 2009)

Emergency Management Planning in BC

Multi-agency hazard plans for BC are prepared and updated regularly by the Provincial Emergency Program to ensure an effective strategy is in place to address many possible types of emergencies and disasters. These plans foster cooperation among multiple organizations focusing on public safety, infrastructure and property protection and managing the aftermath of events. For more information about provincial hazard planning Read more >>

A Salute to Public Safety Lifeline Volunteers

In recognition of the outstanding contributions from volunteers to public safety, the Province issued a new bumper sticker that reads, ‘Volunteers: B.C.’s Public Safety Lifeline.’ To obtain a bumper sticker, please contact the Provincial Emergency Program office in your area. For contact information
Click Here >>

Volunteer of the Year Award Recipients 2008

The Provincial Emergency Program supports and recognizes the contribution of the more than 13,000 volunteers in public safety lifeline organizations throughout the province.

Emergency volunteers come from every corner of the province and from all walks of life. Public safety lifeline volunteers respond to an average of 6,000 incidents a year, in all kinds of weather, any place, any time. Their community spirit, dedication and commitment to helping others keeps B.C. strong.

Each year, emergency volunteers from across the province are nominated in one of the five categories. A lifetime achievement award is also recognized. To salute the dedication of provincial emergency volunteers and to kick off this year's Emergency Preparedness Week, the Provincial Emergency Program hosted an awards ceremony in Victoria. Read more >>

Emergency Preparedness for Your Family

Each year, thousands of people face emergency situations that could change their lives forever. Don't be caught off-guard. Know the hazards in your area and take the time to assemble your family emergency kit.

During an emergency, you and your family could be on your own for an extended period of time. Emergency services may not be readily available, as increasing demands are placed on responders. It may take emergency workers some time to get to you as they help those in most critical need. As well, access to phones, gas, water, sewer and electrical services may be cut off. Learning how to be personally prepared is vital. Read more >>.

Local Government
Emergency Planning and Preparedness

In B.C., local governments lead the initial response to emergencies and disasters in their communities. As required by law, they have prepared emergency plans and maintain an emergency management organization. This is to ensure the safety of citizens when a situation escalates beyond the first responder level. The following website links demonstrate the active and significant role played by municipalities and regional districts in risk assessment, mitigation, preparedness, planning, response and recovery.

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Neighbourhood Emergency Preparedness Program

When disaster strikes, it may take emergency responders some time to arrive, as they attend to those in most critical need. The Neighbourhood Emergency Preparedness Program is designed to help individuals and neighbours prepare to be self sufficient for an extended period of time. It is natural for neighbours to come together and to help one another during times of crisis. There is training available that takes this concept one step further. Read more >>

The Critical Role of Volunteers

Volunteers are at the heart of emergency response. There are more than 13,000 volunteers in communities across the province. They do everything from leading air and ground searches and helping the victims of serious car accidents to setting up networks of volunteer teams and coordinating services for victims of natural disasters.
Read more >> [PDF]

Search and Rescue

B.C. is Canada's third largest province. Its diverse and rugged geography and many outdoor recreational opportunities has also led to more recorded search and rescue incidents than in other parts of the country. There are approximately 4,700 registered Search and Rescue volunteers throughout the province who are organized into teams. They may be called upon to assist police in searching for lost recreationalists or to help in accessing and transporting injured people if specialized skills or equipment are needed. They also provide support to local communities during emergencies by helping distribute information during evacuations and other critical response activities.

Many search and rescue incidents are preventable. People can improve their preparedness by researching their trip thoroughly, using appropriate equipment, filing a trip plan and checking local hazards and conditions before heading out. AdventureSmart is an outdoor safety education program to help people become better informed and prepared. Read more >>