Multiple communities across western Canada have been forced to evacuate as intense wildfires continue to spread. The hot, dry weather has sparked massive blazes in Alberta, British Columbia, and Manitoba. About 6,600 residents in Alberta’s Fort McMurray were forced to leave their homes again Tuesday due to an out-of-control wildfire. Fort Nelson, B.C., issued an evacuation order Friday, affecting about 4,700 residents. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau highlighted the need for increased preparedness and coordination for wildfires this year, acknowledging the potential for a severe forest fire season as global temperatures rise.
Thousands of Canadians have already been subject to evacuation orders and alerts this spring. Jack Rozdilsky, an associate professor of emergency and disaster management at York University, emphasizes the importance of understanding the difference between an evacuation order and an alert. An evacuation order requires immediate departure from homes due to high fire risk, while an alert indicates a potential threat and urges residents to be ready to evacuate on short notice.
Rozdilsky stresses the significance of pre-evacuation preparedness. He advises staying informed through local news, following emergency organizations on social media, and having an evacuation plan in place. The plan should include a designated destination, transportation arrangements, essential belongings to bring, and contact information for out-of-town individuals. Rozdilsky also recommends creating an evacuation checklist, covering appropriate clothing and gear for protection against embers and flames, as well as items such as flashlights, water, medications, cell phones, and extra batteries.
For those evacuating by vehicle, ensuring a full gas tank, avoiding downed power lines, and following designated evacuation routes are crucial. Authorities emphasize the importance of having an emergency kit ready, tailored to individual household needs and including items like non-perishable food, water, first-aid supplies, medications, and important documents.
Specific evacuation guidelines vary across provinces and territories, but general expectations include knowing where to go and making arrangements with family, friends, or hotels. Public evacuation centers are also available in most regions. Maintaining a calm demeanor during an evacuation is essential, avoiding stress and anxiety that can hinder decision-making.
Upon receiving clearance from emergency officials, it is important to exercise caution when returning to evacuated areas, as hazards may still be present. Discarding contaminated food and water, taking inventory of damaged belongings for insurance purposes, and seeking assistance for temporary housing and disaster financial aid are recommended steps. The article concludes by highlighting the need for awareness of the potential stress and social impacts of natural disasters and encourages seeking support if needed.
