First Nations Wildfire Evacuations: A Guide for Communities and External Agencies

Description

Nearly one third of wildfire evacuations in Canada involve Indigenous communities. While evacuations are carried out to protect people from smoke and flames, deciding to leave brings its own challenges. This evacuation guide is based on interviews with over two hundred wildfire evacuees from seven First Nations. By comparing the evacuees’ experiences, both good and bad, it provides direction on how Indigenous communities and external agencies can best prepare for the different stages of an evacuation. Packed with real-life stories, checklists, and guiding questions, it gives an overview of what to expect and how to plan. Specific topics include: - assessing the risk to the health and safety of community members - knowing when to do a partial vs a full evacuation - figuring out who to contact for help - troubleshooting transportation - communicating with members before and after the evacuation - arranging appropriate accommodation for evacuees - caring for Elders and other more vulnerable community members - organizing food and activities while away. With climate change raising the danger of wildfires around the world, the experiences of the communities featured in this book will serve as an indispensable resource for any town at risk from fire. This book belongs in every band council office and on the bookshelves of anyone involved in emergency management. It provides valuable guidance for First Nations, agencies involved in carrying out or providing support during wildfire evacuations, and host communities.