Response plans include a three-stage public
safety evacuation process:
1. Evacuation Alert:
Local authorities issue a warning about an imminent threat to life and
property, and people are asked to be ready to leave on short notice.
When people choose to leave an area before or during the issuing of an
alert this is referred to as a voluntary evacuation.
2. Evacuation Order:
When the population is determined to be at imminent risk, local
authorities issue an evacuation order and people must leave the area
immediately. Local police or RCMP enforce evacuation orders.
3. Evacuation Rescind:
An evacuation order or alert is rescinded or lifted by local authorities
when it is determined to be safe for residents to return home. An
evacuation order may be reinstated if a threat returns.
Local Emergency Social Services volunteers coordinate
the provision of support to evacuees at designated reception centres.
They may provide short-term assistance to people who are forced to leave
their homes during interface fires, floods and other emergencies.
