Extreme heat refers to periods of unusually high temperatures that can pose health risks. It can lead to heat-related illnesses, including heat exhaustion and heatstroke. Extreme heat events are becoming more frequent and intense due to climate change.

Watch the video below to learn how to stay safe during an extreme heat event.

Extreme weather events, such as heatwaves, droughts, storms, and heavy rain, present a significant hazard associated with climate change. These events are increasing in British Columbia, leading to more frequent and intense occurrences.

Watch the video below to learn how to stay safe during an extreme weather event.

This topic addresses the risks and dangers associated with toxic drugs, such as illicit substances contaminated with harmful substances like fentanyl. The objective is to mitigate the harm caused by toxic drugs and promote harm reduction practices within the health-care community.

Watch the video below to learn more about overdose prevention and harm reduction.

Wildfires are natural disasters characterized by uncontrolled fires that rapidly spread across vegetation and forested areas. They can be caused by natural factors such as lightning or human activities like campfires or discarded cigarettes. Wildfires pose significant risks to lives, properties, and the environment.

Watch the video below to learn how to stay safe during a wildfire.

B.C. wildfires have had severe consequences for the people affected; with many communities experiencing ongoing mental, physical, social and economic impacts.

Approximately 3,000 earthquakes are reported in British Columbia each year. Earthquakes occur due to tectonic plate movements, which create stress in the Earth's crust and upper mantle. While most go unnoticed, significant ones can have a profound impact. On average, earthquakes strong enough to cause structural damage occur once per decade.

Watch the video below to learn how to stay safe during an earthquake.

Floods are natural disasters characterized by water overflow onto typically dry land. They can occur due to heavy rainfall, snowmelt, or dam failures. Floods can cause extensive damage to properties, infrastructure and transportation corridors, and pose risks to human health and safety.

Watch the video below to learn how to stay safe during a flood.

Emergency Preparedness Week (May 7–13, 2023) encourages Canadians to be prepared to cope on their own for at least the first 72 hours of an emergency while rescue workers help those in urgent need. This special week is a national effort of provincial and territorial emergency management organizations and Public Safety Canada.

By taking a few simple steps, you can become better prepared to face a range of emergencies – anytime, anywhere. It is important to:

The Great British Columbia ShakeOut, an annual earthquake preparedness drill, takes place Thursday, October 19th, 2023 at 10:19 am. At this time, people across the province will ‘drop, cover and hold on’ for two minutes; the time it takes for the shaking to stop during an earthquake.

Located in an earthquake-prone region, B.C. experiences over one thousand minor earthquakes each year. As health care professionals, we need to be aware of the impact a major earthquake could have on the people we serve and the demand for health services. Preparing today can help with faster recovery and limit the devastating effects of major seismic activity.

If you are not engaged in a critical function involving direct patient care, at 10:20 a.m. drop to the ground, take cover under a table or desk and hold on as if a real earthquake was occurring.

While taking cover, look around and imagine what would happen in a major earthquake. What would fall? What would be damaged? What steps can be taken to make your environment safer? Consider what to do after the shaking stops.

Visit www.GetPrepared.ca for more resources to help you and your family prepare for all types of emergencies.