Welcome to the City of Greenwood's Emergency Preparedness section. Being prepared for emergencies is essential for the safety and resilience of our community. Greenwood, located in the Boundary region of British Columbia, faces various natural hazards common to the interior, such as wildfires, floods, and severe weather. This section provides comprehensive guidance to help residents, families, and businesses prepare effectively. We draw on provincial best practices from PreparedBC and regional resources from the Regional District of Kootenay Boundary (RDKB) to ensure our information is up-to-date and practical.

Follow the three key steps to preparedness: Know the risks, Make a plan, and Get a kit. Stay informed through local alerts, and remember that preparation can make all the difference in protecting yourself, your loved ones, and your property.

For immediate emergencies, call 9-1-1. For non-emergencies or wildfire reports, contact 1-800-663-5555 or *5555 on a cell phone.

• Communication: Create a contact list including family, neighbors, and an out-of-area contact. Share it with everyone and store copies in your kit.

• Meeting Places: Designate a primary and secondary location to reunite if separated, such as a community center or relative's home.

• Utilities: Learn how to safely shut off water, electricity, and gas (except during evacuations—leave gas to professionals).

• Insurance: Review your policy for disaster coverage. Contact your provider or the Insurance Bureau of Canada at 1-844-227-5422.

• Special Needs: Account for children, older adults, people with disabilities, and pets. For disabilities, use the C-MIST framework (Communication, Medical, Independence, Supervision, Transportation) and build a support network of at least three trusted people.

• Evacuation Alert: Prepare to leave on short notice.

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• Evacuation Order: Leave immediately.

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• What to Expect: Register with Emergency Support Services (ESS) for short-term aid like lodging and food. Pre-register at ess.gov.bc.ca.

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• Pets and Livestock: Include them in your plan. Prepare grab-and-go bags for pets with food, leashes, and medications. For large animals, contact RDKB or Horse Council BC.

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• Recovery: After an event, check for Disaster Financial Assistance (DFA) eligibility through the provincial government for uninsurable losses.

Familiarize yourself with Greenwood's evacuation routes, including major roads like Highway 3. Avoid flood-prone or wildfire-risk areas during events.

Neighborhood and Business Plans

• Neighborhoods: Organize community meetings to discuss risks and mutual aid. Identify vulnerable residents and assign roles like information sharing.

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• Businesses: Secure hazards, back up data, and train staff. Tourism operators should prepare for guest evacuations, including accessible options.

Build an Emergency Kit

Assemble a household kit for at least 72 hours of self-sufficiency and a grab-and-go bag for quick evacuations. Store them in accessible locations and check contents every six months.

Household Emergency Kit Essentials

• Water and Food: 4 liters of water per person per day (for drinking and sanitation); non-perishable food for three days.

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• First Aid and Medications: Basic first aid kit; prescription medications (at least a week's supply); copies of prescriptions; glasses/hearing aids.

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• Tools and Supplies: Flashlight with batteries; multi-tool; duct tape; garbage bags; whistle; manual can opener.

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• Clothing and Shelter: Change of clothes; blankets or sleeping bags; rain gear; sturdy shoes.

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• Hygiene: Soap, hand sanitizer, toilet paper, feminine products, disinfectant.

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• Documents: Copies of IDs, insurance papers, passports, family photos, cash in small bills.

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• Electronics: Battery-powered radio; phone charger or power bank.

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• Special Items: Baby formula/diapers; pet food/leashes; games/books for children.

Grab-and-Go Bag

A portable version for evacuations lasting 6-12 hours, expandable if time allows:

• Core Items: Water (1 liter/person), snacks, medications, documents, blanket, flashlight, cash, phone charger, clothing change.

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• If 30 Minutes Available: Add pillows, address book, pet supplies, extra meds, water jugs.

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• If 1 Hour Available: Include cooler with food, gloves/masks, paper goods, vehicle titles.

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• If 2+ Hours Available: Pack photos, heirlooms, camping gear.

Adapt for pets, infants, or medical needs. For full lists, download PreparedBC guides.

FireSmart Basics

• Home Assessments: Book a free professional assessment at firesmartbcplatform.ca or email [email protected]. Get recommendations to create defensible space.

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• Rebate Program: Apply for 2025 rebates (May 15-Oct 31) for mitigation work like removing combustibles or installing fire-resistant materials.

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• Community Resiliency: Greenwood's CWRP focuses on risk reduction through fuel management, education, and collaboration. Key goals: Increase awareness, reduce fuels in high-risk zones, and enhance emergency response.

Clear vegetation within 10 meters of your home, use fire-resistant roofing, and store firewood away from structures. Report wildfires immediately.

Flood Preparedness

Floods from rivers or heavy rain are common. Refer to RDKB's Flood Preparedness Guide for landowners.

• Know Your Risk: Check floodplain maps via RDKB. Elevate valuables and install sump pumps.

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• During a Flood: Avoid floodwaters, move to higher ground, and follow alerts.

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• Aftermath: Wait for clearance before returning; document damage for insurance.

https://emergency.rdkb.com/firesmart