B.C. Wildfire Resource Guide: Essential Links for Live Updates, Personal Preparedness and More

It’s a tough fact to accept, but wildfire season is really now part of the annual calendar here in B.C.

Last year over 2,000 wildfires raged here in the province—a record-setting year for hectares burned. And while the season has been calmer so far in 2024, wildfires are (by their very nature) unpredictable, so we all should hope for the best but be prepared for the worst.

That’s why we’ve compiled this list of resources, links to live updates and information for B.C. residents (and visitors, too!) to keep everyone as prepared as possible for the least-wonderful time of the year. 

Where to find live updates:

The Government of B.C. provides updates and information about current wildfires, procedures and resources.

This live map of current fires shows who needs to evacuate and what areas have active fire bans.

Personal Preparedness:

The government of B.C. offers tips and resources regarding how to fireproof your house and property. 

Firesmart Canada is a national program that helps to increase neighbourhood resilience to wildfire and minimize its negative impacts.

Who to contact:

If you see a wildfire or smoke, immediately reach out by calling 1-800-663-5555 toll-free, or *5555 on a cell phone to report wildfires, smoke columns and violations of wildfire regulations in British Columbia.

The B.C. Wildfire Service App has a feature that lets you report pictures of fire or smoke to the authorities for expert analysis. The app can be downloaded here for Android users and here for Apple users. 

Call  1-888-336-7378, you will get information about fire danger ratings, regional fire prohibitions and more. 

First Nations Support: 

The First Nations Health Authorities provides information on anxiety management, evacuation procedures and tips on how to safely return home after a fire as well as other resources and tips. 

Where to Donate: 

United Way B.C.: The Wildfire Recovery Fund, used for individuals and families who lost their homes to wildfires, suffering communities and mental as well as physical support.

YMCA Southern Interior: To support wildfire evacuees, the YMCA of Southern Interior B.C. is offering free access to three of their facilities in Kelowna including the Kelowna Family Y, the Downtown Y, and H2O Adventure + Fitness Centre. By donating, the YMCA is supported in keeping those services free for people in need. 

B.C. Speaking for Animals: You can donate specifically to support animals affected by the wildfires as well as access information on how to prepare as a pet or livestock owner.

Cannery Brewing: By purchasing cans of Wildfire dark lager, the Canadian Fallen Firefighters Foundation gets support. A portion of every sale will be donated to the foundation that honours the work and sacrifices made by generations of firefighters in Canada. In Vancouver, cans can be bought at Denman Beer, Wine & Spirits, Viti Seymor, Parkway Liquor and other liquor stores. 

Volunteer opportunities: 

B.C. SPCA – Speaking for animals: By reaching out through to volunteers@spca.bc.ca you will be connected to the appropriate location/program. Their response teams include staff members and trained volunteers. 

Become a member of B.C. Search and Rescue and learn how to help during emergencies, evacuate people and much more. This is a volunteer position that is in demand all year round and helps with much more than just wildfire rescue. Find more information via their website.

Volunteering with the Canadian Red Cross is an additional option for people looking to offer their help. Find more information via their website.

What to do when dealing with smoke: 

• Stay inside as much as possible and keep your windows and doors closed
• Check the air quality index and the smoke forecast in your area before leaving the house 
• If you cannot access clean air, wear masks such as N95 or KN95 to protect your lungs.
• Portable air cleaners can reduce the impact of smoke in our homes.