When it’s time to Evacuate

Authorities will not ask you to leave your home unless they have reason to believe you are in danger. When ordered to evacuate, evacuees should do the following:

  1. Leave the area immediately. Choosing to remain puts yourself and others in danger.
  2. Follow instructions issued by authorities including where to go.
  3. Stay informed of local news and updates.
  4. Wait for the evacuation to be rescinded before returning home.
  5. You may be asked to register with Emergency Social Service providers so you can be accounted for or reunited with family members.
What to take when evacuating

If you are ordered to evacuate, take:

  • your emergency kit (emergency go-bag at minimum)
  • your emergency plan
  • essential medications and copies of prescriptions
  • a cellular phone (if you have one)
  • your pets

Pets are not allowed in some emergency shelters. Be sure to plan for your pets in advance and find a pet-friendly location such as with other family members, at a friend’s, kennel or vet who may house them.
Dangers of not evacuating

Choosing to remain in an area that is under an evacuation puts the lives of first responders, your family and yourself in danger as:

  • Evacuation routes can change or become impassible.
  • Services, utilities and businesses that you rely on daily may be shut down.
  • Help may not be able to reach an evacuated area because of a risk to their own safety or access is blocked.
Where to go when evacuating

Evacuees should first look to use their own resources, such as their insurance company, to support themselves when having to evacuate. Most homeowner and tenant insurance plans cover living expenses during an evacuation. Make sure to keep your receipts. If you don't understand your insurance coverage and the claims process, the Insurance Bureau of Canada can help.

Friends and family should also be initial alternatives for assistance. Be sure to discuss this with them beforehand and add their contact information to your family’s emergency plan.
In some instances, non-governmental and community organizations may be involved to offer temporary assistance. Additionally, where the situation warrants, officials may open a reception centre where evacuees can:

  • receive information about the emergency
  • register with Emergency Social Services for the purpose of family reunification, being accounted for and receiving services
  • receive temporary services for basic needs such as food, clothing and lodging

Locations of reception centres and the services they provide will depend on the location of the emergency, its impact on infrastructure and availability of resources. As a result, authorities will provide direction on where to go at the time of emergency.