Staying Safe, Ready, and Resilient This Fall

Message from the Emergency Management Administrator

As summer transitions into fall, the Haisla Nation faces changing weather conditions that can bring heavy rainfall, strong winds, localized flooding, power outages, and challenging travel conditions. Fall is the perfect time for families to review emergency plans, replenish supplies, and prepare homes and vehicles for seasonal hazards.

Preparedness starts with simple actions taken today that can make a significant difference during an emergency. We encourage all residents to take time this season to ensure their households are ready for whatever fall may bring.

Be Prepared!

Know the Risks Understand hazards that may affect your area.

Make a Plan Ensure everyone in your household knows what to do.

Build a Kit Have essential supplies ready before an emergency occurs.

Stay Informed Follow official instructions and emergency alerts.

Community Preparedness Starts With You

By taking a few simple steps this fall, you can help keep your family, neighbours, and community safe. Preparedness is a shared responsibility, and every household that takes action strengthens the resilience of the entire Haisla Nation.

Stay safe, stay informed, and stay prepared.

Prepared by Haisla Nation Emergency Management
Working together to build a safer and more resilient community.

What Hazards Can We Expect This Fall?

Fall in our region can bring:

• Heavy rainfall and flooding
• Windstorms and falling trees
• Extended power outages
• Coastal storm surges
• Landslides and erosion in vulnerable areas
• Early snowfall and icy roads
• Increased respiratory concerns from lingering wildfire smoke
• Colder temperatures and home heating risks

Top 10 Things You Can Do This Fall

1. Prepare Your Emergency Kit

Ensure your emergency kit can support your household for at least 72 hours, preferably 7 days.

Include:

☐ Water (4 litres per person per day)

☐ Non-perishable food

☐ Flashlights and batteries

☐ Portable phone chargers

☐ First aid supplies

☐ Prescription medications

☐ Blankets and warm clothing

☐ Important documents

☐ Pet supplies

2. Prepare for Power Outages

Windstorms are one of the leading causes of fall power outages.

Consider having:

• Flashlights in accessible locations
• Extra batteries
• Battery-powered radio
• Portable power banks
• Alternative heat source (used safely)
• Fuelled vehicle in case evacuation becomes necessary

Never use generators indoors or in enclosed spaces.

3. Clean Gutters and Storm Drains

Heavy rain can quickly overwhelm drainage systems.

Before major rainstorms:

• Clear leaves from gutters
• Remove debris from drains near your home
• Check downspouts direct water away from foundations
• Inspect roofs for damage

4. Review Your Family Emergency Plan

Ask your family:

• Where will we meet if separated?
• Who is our out-of-area emergency contact?
• How will we communicate if cell service fails?
• What is our evacuation plan?

Practice the plan together.

5. Get Ready for Flooding

Residents in low-lying or flood-prone areas should:

• Move valuables to higher levels
• Know where sandbags are available
• Prepare emergency evacuation items
• Monitor local weather alerts
• Keep important documents in waterproof containers

6. Prepare Vehicles for Fall and Winter

Emergency vehicle kits should include:

• Warm clothing
• Blankets
• First aid kit
• Flashlight
• Water and snacks
• Phone charger
• Jumper cables
• Ice scraper
• Small shovel

Check tires, wipers, lights, and battery condition before winter arrives.

7. Practice Safe Home Heating

Before cold weather arrives:

• Inspect fireplaces and chimneys
• Test smoke alarms
• Test carbon monoxide alarms
• Keep space heaters away from combustible materials
• Have fire extinguishers readily available

8. Be Ready for Storm Season

Secure outdoor items such as:

• Patio furniture
• Garbage bins
• Tarps and canopies
• Seasonal decorations

Strong winds can turn unsecured objects into dangerous projectiles.

9. Stay Informed

Stay connected through emergency notifications and:

• Haisla Nation communications channels
• Voyent Alerts
• Local radio stations
• Environment and weather alerts

During emergencies, accurate information helps residents make informed decisions.

10. Check on Family, Elders, and Neighbours

Community resilience starts with looking after one another.

Take time to:

• Check on Elders
• Support neighbours who may need assistance
• Review emergency plans with family members
• Ensure vulnerable individuals have emergency supplies

Fall Emergency Preparedness Checklist

Home

☐ Emergency kit stocked

☐ Smoke alarms tested

☐ Carbon monoxide alarms tested

☐ Gutters cleaned

☐ Heating system inspected

☐ Important documents secured

☐ Family emergency plan reviewed

Vehicle

☐ Fuel tank maintained above half-full

☐ Emergency supplies stocked

☐ Tires inspected

☐ Battery checked

☐ Winter tools ready

Family

☐ Emergency contacts updated

☐ Meeting locations identified

☐ Special medical needs addressed

☐ Pet preparedness completed

If you have any questions, please contact Aaron by email at ALee@haisla.ca

Go to PreparedBC Home Emergency Plan for more information on how to Stay Safe, Ready, and Resilient This Fall.