Local government emergency operations

Last updated on February 21, 2024

This page is for local emergency program staff responsible for public safety during response and recovery. Most of the templates and forms are in Word (DOCX) format so that you can add, delete or edit tasks as you customize the process to meet your community needs.

On this page


Declaring a State of Local Emergency

Emergency program staff and officials must be prepared to declare a state of local emergency (SOLE) in response to an emergency. These guides and templates are available to guide the process.

Guide

Templates

These templates have been updated based on the Emergency and Disaster Management Act (EDMA) and we are introducing a new template. 

The SOLE amendment or extension template is now two separate steps. First, the Request for State of Local Emergency Extension/Amendment (new) must be approved, then the extension or amendment order template can be used.

B.C. emergency alerts

Guidance, operational information and submission form for communities to request a B.C. emergency alert.

Guidelines and form

Evacuation resources

The general public can find evacuation guidance details on this page: Evacuation guidance for the general public

These guidelines outline considerations when conducting evacuations. 

Guides

Templates

Emergency response operations

These guidelines are for an Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) in the event of a major emergency.

Guides

Templates

My EM Resources is a free online resource centre hosted by the Justice Institute of BC. The site has a series of EOC forms for download. 

Community Response Locations Portal

The Community Response Locations Portal is a centralized database created for First Nations and local governments to help share emergency response locations with the public during extreme temperatures and other emergencies.

Communities can add and edit emergency response locations into the portal that are automatically shared publicly on emergencymapbc.ca The portal is used to share:

  • Cooling centres and spaces in response to hot weather events
  • Warming centres and spaces in response to cold weather events
  • Emergency Support Services reception centres during evacuations

This data can be shared on local community websites (if your site has map features), and amplified on provincial emergency response channels including EmergencyInfoBC.ca and @EmergencyInfoBC on X (formerly Twitter). Historical data will also be saved and made available for communities on Climate Ready BC to support future planning for climate-related emergencies. 

How to enter your data

For login credentials and any questions regarding the portal contact your local regional office.

Post-event reporting

Guidelines and template of reporting requirements for local authorities after the expiry or cancellation of a state of local emergency or local recovery period.

Guides

Templates

Public and media communications

A comprehensive guide to help build trust and connect with the public during an emergency.

Guide

Templates

Financial guidance for response and recovery costs

These guides and templates will help with financial assistance claims for response and recovery costs. Disaster Financial Assistance (DFA) has different guidance and templates.

Guides

Templates

Questions?

Please contact a Regional Office if you have any questions about these resources.