The BC Wildfire Service's app has been improved for the 2024 fire season. (submitted image)

By Liam Verster

Emergency planner

Province launches new online emergency tool & improved wildfire app

May 9, 2024 | 10:30 AM

British Columbians will be able to better prepare and stay informed during emergencies through a new tool.

As part of Emergency Preparedness Week, the provincial government has unveiled a new interactive Emergency Ready Planner is an online program that people can use to create emergency and evacuation plans for themselves and their family.

“We’re taking strong action to help you and your family prepare and have the information you need during emergencies,” Bowinn Ma, Minister of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness, stated.

“Being prepared and feeling ready starts with having a plan. We encourage everyone to make an emergency and evacuation plan, and the new tools launched today make planning easier and will help people stay safe.”

The new tool is part of a series of improvements to emergency communications programs.

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The province has improved the B.C. Wildfire Service app to better inform people of wildfire activities and fire bans.

“During wildfire season, we want to make sure that British Columbians have access to fast, reliable information when they need it most,” Bruce Ralston, Minister of Forests, said.

“That’s why we have taken action to improve the BC Wildfire Service app and put it at the fingertips of more people around the province. Starting today, the newly improved app will be available on more devices and will include the most up-to-date wildfire information that will keep people safe and informed this summer.”

The Drought Information Portal has also been updated to better inform the public about drought and watershed conditions

“B.C. experienced serious drought last summer, and we continue to get less rain and snow than usual. That’s why we are taking strong, early action to prepare, including strengthening the information people have on hand,” Nathan Cullen, Minister of Water, Land and Resource Stewardship, said.

“In communities across B.C., people, businesses and governments are already taking steps to follow local restrictions and help save water. Small changes make a big difference when we do them together.”

British Columbians are reminded to prepare for natural disasters by preparing a grab-and-go-bag filled with supplies to last at least 72 hours as well as copies of important documents, extra medication, pet food, and other important items; create an emergency plan and share it with friends and family; FireSmart properties so they will be less susceptible to wildfires; and review insurance policies.