As B.C. wildfires rage, the Province urges everyone to prepare | Daily Hive

B.C. urges residents to prepare for potential evacuations 'regardless of where they live'

BC Wildfire Service

While we might be experiencing some relief from the smoke and heat in Vancouver, wildfires are still raging in other parts of B.C. — and the Province is urging everyone to prepare.

With dozens of evacuation alerts and orders already issued due to B.C. wildfires, the provincial government sent out a release reminding everyone in the province to be prepared in the event of an emergency.

It is “urging people” throughout the Province to pre-register with Emergency Support Services (ESS), which provides short-term support during an evacuation, “regardless of where they live or how close they are to an active wildfire or other emergency event.”

If people register for ESS now, it can help reduce wait times at evacuee reception centres in the event of an emergency, as well as speed up the time that people get the support they need.

This is because during an emergency like a wildfire, people who need support to meet their basic needs are required to register with ESS, either online or at an evacuee reception centre established by the local authority. People can also get support by calling the BC Evacuee Helpline at 1-800-387-4258.

Local governments and First Nations administer the program, helping people with basic needs like accommodation, clothing, food, and incidentals.

Wildfires in B.C. as of July 27, 2026. (BC Wildfire Service/Supplied)

“Registering in advance ensures you and your family get immediate assistance in your time of need,” reads the release.

“For example, individuals and families under an evacuation order may be able to receive $200 per night via e-Transfer without having to visit a reception centre in person, providing them with the flexibility to immediately evacuate to a hotel, campground or stay with friends or family in another community.”

Other ways to prepare

The Province is also encouraging people to prepare for potential evacuations with other actions, including:

Having an up-to-date household emergency plan.
Packing grab-and-go bags with enough supplies (including food, water, clothing, medications, and other essentials) for 72 hours for all members of your household, including pets.
Keep informed by monitoring your local government or First Nations website and social media.

The Province states that someone in an area under an evacuation order “must leave the area immediately and follow the direction of their local authority.”

“Evacuation orders are issued by local governments and First Nations as a last resort to protect lives.”

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