Wildfire

Updated on March 13, 2025

Wildfire 

Did you know? 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. 

Unfortunately, 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.

How to prepare 

Download Prepared BC: Get prepared for a wildfire resources. Topics covered in the brochure include: 

Before a wildfire

  • Make your plan
  • Build your grab-and-go bag(s) 
  • Research insurance cover 
  • Protect your home 
  • Prepare your farm or agricultural business 
  • Know your evacuation stages 

During a wildfire

  • Follow instructions 
  • Dealing with wildfire smoke 
  • Coping with wildfire stress 

After a wildfire

  • Returning home 
    • Getting there 
    • Re-entering 
    • Food and water safety 
    • Psychological care 
    • Starting the insurance claim process 

Get notified of an emergency in your area  

Sign up for RDN's Voyent Alert! notifications. Registration for the service is free, simple and anonymous. You can choose how you would like to receive alerts, either through a mobile app, email, text message or phone call. 

National alerts

Learn about Emergency Alerts and the National Public Alerting System | CRTC 

Useful links