Get prepared for a wildfire

Illustration of a landscape during a fire

On average there are more than 1,600 wildfires in British Columbia every year. When wildfires burn away from houses or infrastructure, they can have ecological benefits. 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. Read about how B.C. is preparing for and adapting to climate change.


Stages of a wildfire

If you live in an area at risk of a wildfire, it’s important that you take time to get ready for one. Understand what to do before, during and after a wildfire:

Get prepared

If you're in an area that is prone to wildfire, or you just want to be proactive, there are a number of activities you can complete to prevent or prepare for a wildfire.

Stay safe

You can 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, but if you use caution and take things one step at a time, it is possible to recover and return your home to normal.


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.

For more information or inquiries about this guide, please contact us at PreparedBC@gov.bc.ca.