Being prepared for an emergency or natural disaster is everyone's responsibility. Creating an Emergency Plan and assembling or buying a kit that can sustain your family for at least 72 hours are steps you can take to prepare.

Know the Risks!

Wildfires and floods are the most common reasons for major organized evacuations in our region. 

Know the difference between an Evacuation Alert (Get Ready!) and an Evacuation Order (LEAVE NOW!)

To get started:

View more Emergency Preparedness resources from the Cowichan Valley Regional District.

eALERT

In an effort to alert residents and businesses of local critical incidents, the Cowichan Valley Regional District has implemented an automated electronic alert service. This service will notify you by email, text message, or telephone of the nature of the incident and where to obtain more information. Sign up now!

Make a Plan!

Pack your Grab 'n Go bag now - Everything you need to survive!

Make a list of everything important that you would want to take with you in an evacuation and get them packed up and ready to go.

Take pictures of your home, yard and all rooms/building interiors for insurance should you need it.

Park vehicle for easy escape. If you have a camper or trailer, get it loaded and ready to go - this may become your home away from home!

Create a To-Do checklist of all the things you would need to do to prepare yourself, your loved ones and your home if you were forced to leave quickly. Talk with your family members and come up with an evacuation plan that everyone is familiar with. Add specifics to your checklist as you think of them.

Evacuation Alert vs Evacuation Order Response!

Evacuation Alert

Evacuation Order

Locate all family members.

Locate all family members.

Gather essential items such as medications, eyeglasses, phone chargers, valuable papers (i.e. insurance), immediate care needs for all, and, if you choose, keepsakes (photographs, etc). Have these items readily available for quick departure.

Pack essential items into vehicle.

Unplug all unnecessary appliances and take sensitive equipment like computers with you.

Prepare to move any disabled persons and/or children. Consider helping neighbours who may need assistance.

Pack family members and neighbours needing transportation into vehicle.

Keep gas tank full.

Keep gas tank full.

Move pets and livestock to a safe area.

Take portable pets with you.

Arrange to transport your household members.

Follow evacuation order route to reception centre.

Arrange accommodation for your family with family and friends.

Register family and access any assistance provided. Make sure you provide contact number for information updates!

Monitor news sources (radio and social media) for information on evacuation orders and locations of Reception Centres.

Contact your insurance company to start the claim process - do not wait - insurance may provide assistance for you while you are evacuated, not just afterwards for your home.

Monitor news sources (radio & social media) for information on evacuation areas, information sessions and potential for safe return to home.