Last updated on July 20, 2026.

Emergencies are becoming more frequent and more costly, from wildfires and flooding to severe storms. Being prepared today can significantly reduce the impact tomorrow. 

A strong emergency plan goes beyond a grab-and-go bag. It includes making your home more resilient, understanding your insurance, and investing in prevention before disaster strikes. 

What is emergency preparedness?

Emergency preparedness means planning ahead so you can respond quickly and recover faster. This includes: 

• Understanding your risk 

• Protecting your home 

• Having access to financial support when you need it 

Being proactive rather than reactive can significantly reduce both stress and cost in an emergency.  

How to prepare for an emergency.

Here are the key elements you should consider and develop to help ensure your family’s safety.

1. Research local risks.

In BC, wildfire risk continues to grow, especially in communities near forests and natural areas. 

Tools like FireSmart^TM BC assessments and provincial risk maps can help you understand your exposure and identify the most important upgrades for your specific property.

2. Prepare the basics: your emergency kit and plan.

Every household should be ready to leave quickly if needed. 

Your grab-and-go kit should include: 

• Identification and insurance documents 
• Medication and first-aid supplies 
• Water and non-perishable food 
• Cash and device chargers 

For a full checklist, explore FireSmart’s Emergency Wildfire Preparedness Checklist.

3. Focus on what matters most: preventing home ignition.

Research shows that wildfire damage often comes down to how vulnerable a home is to ignition, not just how close it is to a fire.  

Start with FireSmart basics: 

• Clear debris, such as leaves, branches, pine needles, from around your home 

• Keep a clear space around your home by managing trees and vegetation 

• Move firewood, furniture, and fuel sources away from walls 

• Keep gutters, roofs, and yards well maintained 

These simple steps can dramatically reduce risk and are a key part of FireSmart guidance.  

4. Invest in upgrades that reduce risk and future costs.

Some of the most effective wildfire mitigation measures require upfront investment but can significantly reduce long-term damage and insurance risk. 

Common high-impact upgrades include: 

• Ember-resistant vent systems 
• Fire-resistant siding or exterior cladding 
• Fire-resistant roofing (metal, asphalt, or tile) 
• Fire sprinkler systems 
• Landscaping to remove trees or brush near your home 
• Replacing flammable hedges with fire-resistant or deciduous alternatives 
• Building dedicated firewood storage away from your home 

These are the types of improvements are eligible for financing under Vancity Planet-Wise™ home renovation loan, which offers rates as low as Prime +0.75% and amortization up to 15 years.

5. Connect prevention with financing and insurance.

Wildfire resilience isn’t just a safety issue. It’s a financial one. 

More members are looking at ways to: 

• Finance upgrades for wildfire resilience 
• Reduce future out-of-pocket cost
• Strengthen their insurance protection 

Options like Planet-Wise home renovation loan can help fund eligible upgrades, while working with an insurance broker ensures your coverage reflects your current risk profile. 

6. Review your insurance coverage before you need it.

In a major event, the difference between full recovery and financial strain often comes down to coverage. 

Consider: 

• What risks are included, such as wildfire, flood, and earthquake? 

• Whether your coverage limits reflect current rebuild costs 

• When you last reviewed your policy 

A quick check-in with a broker can help ensure you’re fully protected.

7. Build financial resilience alongside physical resiliance.

Preparedness isn’t just about your home,. iIt’s also about your finances. 

• Set aside an emergency fund where possible 
• Keep savings accessible for short-term needs 
• Explore financing options for larger upgrades 

Even small steps can make recovery easier.  

Stay prepared, stay protected.

Emergencies don’t wait, and preparedness isn’t something to put off for another day.   

You’re not just reducing risk, you’re building a future that’s more resilient, more confident, and more in your control by: 

• Investing in practical preparedness, 
• Making FireSmart upgrades, and 
• Securing the right insurance. 

Start with one small step and let it build from there. Every bit of progress adds up, and before long, you’ve got a plan that genuinely protects what matters most. Your resilience starts today. And if wildfire preparedness projects are part of your plan, upgrades such as fire-resistant roofing, siding, windows, or landscaping may be eligible for Vancity’s Planet-Wise™ home renovation loan, which can help make home improvements more affordable.