Historical events and previous experiences have demonstrated the importance of understanding the risks of wildfires, planning, and taking mitigative steps to reduce potential impacts. It is important to be proactive in protecting yourself, your family, and your property.

Risk awareness:

• Maintain awareness by monitoring information shared by your local authority.
• Stay informed about weather conditions and potential wildfire triggers.
• Monitor Manitoba Wildfire Service and Manitoba Wildfire Information regularly.

Planning and education:

• Consider adding the following items to your Emergency Go Kits and/or Home Emergency Supplies: N95 respirator masks, a portable air purifier, an emergency fire blanket, and fire-resistant gloves and clothing.
• Develop and practice your family emergency plan. Include a home fire escape route, a rendezvous point for household members, as well as a fire escape plan for vulnerable persons and pets.
• Make sure you know your local authority’s evacuation routes and procedures.
• Have a plan for evacuating pets and livestock.

Property protection strategies:

• Make sure your home is protected by fire insurance (often included in standard home insurance).
•  Eliminate home fire hazards, such as leaving the kitchen unattended while cooking or storing damaged appliance cords.
• Install and routinely test smoke alarms on each level of the home.
• Maintain a working sprinkler system (if possible and necessary).
• Consult local authorities about making your home fire-resistant.
• Remember to distinguish between evacuation alerts (be prepared to leave on short notice) and evacuation orders (leave the area immediately). Stay safe and prepared.

Review the Natural Disaster Preparation Residential Checklist and Fire Smart Canada for more tips on how to protect your home.

As wildfires continue to increase in intensity, staying informed and prepared during wildfire season is essential.

Stay informed:

• Listen to local radio, television, or other official news sources.
• Pay close attention to updates and warnings from officials.

Be ready to evacuate:

• Be prepared to evacuate at any time. Have your Emergency Go Kits on hand.
• Ensure the safety of your pets and any livestock.

Health and Safety:

• Keep all doors and windows closed to keep out smoke and debris.
• Illuminate your home and surroundings to increase visibility.
• Move combustibles away from your home. This includes firewood and lawn furniture.
• Be aware of the harmful effects of smoke.
• Monitor air quality and seek medical attention if necessary.
• Never drive through a wildfire.
• Prioritize safety and seek shelter in a safe place.
• Follow instructions from your local authority to minimize fire damage.

Once the flames are gone, a calm and cautious approach is critical for safety, recovery, and rebuilding. As you return to your community, be aware of the potential hazards posed by debris, downed trees, and compromised infrastructure.

Stay alert:

• Stay calm and watch for road hazards, such as debris, downed trees, or downed power lines.
• Wait for official authorization before re-entering affected areas.

Property evaluation:

• Work with local authorities and professionals to evaluate the safety of your home.
• Re-enter with caution and be aware of potential hazards, such as holes in the floor, broken glass, and debris.

Health protection:

• Check for local water advisories to make sure you are not drinking contaminated water.
• Keep children and pets away from contaminated areas during cleaning.

Future preparation:

• Replace used items in your Emergency Go Kits and Home Emergency Supplies.
• Set annual reminders to review and update your home emergency plan and emergency kits.

Recovery and financial assistance:

• Check with your insurance provider first. Coverage is widely available.
• Evaluate your property damage carefully. Document damage with photographs.
• Review our Financial Assistance section to see if you are eligible.
• Continue to follow the instructions of your local authority.