The ocean is part of our way of life. It provides food, supports our economy, and connects us to our history and culture. Living along the coast also means understanding and preparing for natural hazards, including tsunamis.
Being prepared doesn’t mean being afraid. It means knowing what to do so we can protect ourselves, our families, our Elders, and our community when every minute counts.
A tsunami is a series of large, powerful ocean waves caused by a sudden displacement of water, usually from an underwater earthquake, landslide, or volcanic eruption.
While major tsunamis are uncommon, they can happen with little warning. That’s why it’s important for everyone to know the signs and have a plan.
Sometimes nature gives us the first warning.
If you are near the shoreline and notice any of the following:
Don’t wait for an alert. Move immediately to higher ground.
A tsunami may arrive within minutes, and acting quickly can save lives.
First: Protect Yourself
Drop, Cover, and Hold On until the shaking stops.
Then: Move to Higher Ground
If you’re near the coast, make your way inland or uphill as quickly as possible.
Check on Others
If it is safe to do so, help:
Stay Informed
Listen for updates from:
Emergencies are stressful enough without having to search for supplies at the last minute.
Keep your kit somewhere easy to reach and check it regularly.
Take a few minutes to talk about emergencies before one happens.
Having these conversations now makes it much easier to respond calmly during an emergency.
Preparedness isn’t about individual households. It’s about community.
When neighbours check on neighbours, when families make plans together, and when we learn evacuation routes before an emergency occurs, we build a safer and more resilient Haisla Nation.
Every person who prepares helps strengthen our community’s ability to respond and recover.
Emergency preparedness starts with small steps.
Take time this month to check your emergency kit, talk with your family, and learn the safest route to higher ground from your home, workplace, or favourite fishing spot.
The more prepared we are today, the safer we’ll be tomorrow.
Gilakas’la for helping keep our community safe.
Haisla Nation Emergency Management
Working together to build a safer, stronger, and more resilient community.