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Wildfire Safety Information for Seniors

Wildfires can affect communities across British Columbia with little warning. For older adults, wildfire smoke, extreme heat, power outages and disruptions to essential services can create additional health and safety risks.

If you live in or are travelling through an affected area, stay informed by monitoring official sources for the latest wildfire conditions, evacuation information and public health advice.

What Older Adults Can Do

Protect your health

  • Limit your exposure to wildfire smoke by staying indoors when air quality is poor.
  • Stay cool and drink plenty of water during hot weather.
  • Contact a health-care provider if you experience new or worsening symptoms such as difficulty breathing, chest pain or severe coughing. Call 9-1-1 if you are experiencing a medical emergency.

Be Prepared

  • Keep a grab-and-go bag with medications, medical supplies, important documents and other essentials.
  • If you use oxygen, electrically powered medical equipment or mobility aids, have a plan in case of a power outage or evacuation.
  • If you receive home support or other in-home services, talk with your service provider about what will happen if services are disrupted.

Stay Connected

  • Let family, friends or neighbours know if you may need assistance.
  • Arrange for someone to check in with you during periods of heavy smoke or if an evacuation alert or order is issued.

Follow Official Instructions

  • Monitor evacuation alerts and orders for your area.
  • Leave immediately if an evacuation order is issued.

Official Resources

Need Help Accessing Seniors’ Services?

If a wildfire has disrupted your access to seniors’ services or community supports, the Office of the Seniors Advocate Information and Referral team may be able to help connect you with available programs and services.

Contact our Information and Referral team