Build Your Plan
Follow this easy to use, step by step guide, along with printable sign.
Emergencies happen quickly, sometimes leaving families with only minutes to act. The more you prepare in advance, the safer you, your loved ones, and your property will be. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you get ready long before the evacuation notice comes.
1. Emergency Ready: Your Quick-Grab Checklist
If you had to leave in 10 minutes, what would you take? A pre-packed “go bag” can save precious time and reduce panic when you need to move fast.
Essentials first: IDs, insurance papers, passports, medications, phone chargers, and pet supplies should always be ready.
Family access: Store the go bag where every family member can reach it quickly.
Digital backup: Keep a flash drive or upload to cloud storage a copy of your home’s inventory, important documents, and family photos.
Pro tip: Swap out season-specific items (like gloves or sunscreen) every few months so your bag is always current.
2. Record Now, Thank Yourself Later
Creating a home inventory may feel tedious, but it can be a lifesaver when making insurance claims after a loss.
Walk through each room with your smartphone set to video mode.
Check everything: Open drawers, closets, and cupboards – capturing every item you own.
Narrate as you go: mention brand names, serial numbers, and any unique features or upgrades.
Store this video in the cloud and send a copy to a trusted friend or family member.
Why it matters: A detailed inventory speeds up insurance claims and helps you recover more fully. Whether you have spent 1 year or 30 years in your home, there are likely things that you have stored away that are not top of mind and may be missed if you need to put a claim together.
3. Think Beyond the Front Door
Wildfire embers can travel kilometres ahead of the flames, landing on roofs, in gutters, and around your property. Small changes outside your home can make a big difference.
Clear combustible debris: Remove dry leaves, pine needles, and branches from your yard, deck, and roof gutters.
Reposition firewood: Store woodpiles at least 10 metres away from the house.
Prune trees: Trim limbs so they’re at least 2 metres above the ground to prevent flames from climbing.
These actions create a “defensible space” – a buffer that helps firefighters protect your property.
4. Family Plan = Peace of Mind
A strong plan ensures that even if you’re separated, everyone knows what to do.
Identify two evacuation routes from your home and neighbourhood. Practice these routes with your family members, so you don’t need to think about it should you need to use them.
Choose a meeting place outside of your immediate area in case you can’t return home.
Select a check-in contact – a friend or family member outside your region who everyone calls to confirm safety.
Practice loading pets into carriers or vehicles so it’s quick and stress-free during an emergency.
Remember: In an evacuation, communication lines may be busy – texting can be faster than calling.
5. Help First Responders Help You
Your preparation can save first responders precious minutes and improve their safety.
Mark hazards: Clearly indicate where propane tanks, fuel cans, or other flammables are stored with a laminated sign near your entry.
Evacuation signage: If your home is empty, display a sign reading “EVACUATED – ALL CLEAR” so crews don’t waste time searching. Download PDF: Evacuated – Window Sign
Pet alerts: Use a window decal that lists the number and type of pets in your home. Update it or remove it if they’ve been evacuated.
Neighbour assistance: Keep your signage in an easy-to-grab spot so a trusted neighbour can post it for you if you’re away when evacuation orders come.
These small steps help emergency crews prioritize and act quickly.
6. Don’t Forget the Fridge!
If you have even a little warning before leaving, there are quick steps that can minimize loss:
Freeze a large jug of water to help keep freezer contents cold during a power outage.
Unplug small appliances and electronics to prevent surge damage.
Lock all doors and windows to secure your home.
Turn off Air Conditioners or Exchangers to avoid pulling outside air into your home.
7. Your Future Self Will Thank You
Keeping important documents in one place, and in both physical and digital formats, makes recovery much smoother.
Home insurance policy and contact details.
Bank account numbers and credit card customer service lines.
Photos of high-value items like jewellery, art, and electronics.
A recent photo of each family member and pet for identification purposes.
Store paper copies in a waterproof folder, and keep digital versions in secure, encrypted cloud storage.
Act Now to Save Time Later
Emergency preparedness is about acting before you’re under pressure. Even small steps now can save you heartache and hardship later. Protecting your home, your family, and your memories starts today. Stay safe, stay informed, and stay ready – because emergencies wait for no one.