SLRD marks Emergency Preparedness Week with public reminders and FireSmart events

Pemberton, BC – With Emergency Preparedness Week May 3-9, the Squamish-Lillooet Regional District (SLRD) is encouraging residents and visitors to take steps to prepare for emergencies – by knowing the risks, making a plan, building an emergency kit and strengthening connections within their communities.

Emergency Preparedness Week is an awareness initiative supported by all levels of government. The 2026 theme, “In it together” reflects the understanding that emergency preparedness is a shared responsibility and that strong social connections are an essential part of community resilience. 

“Preparedness is more than having supplies on hand,” said SLRD Board Chair, Jen Ford. “It’s also about people. And connections. When neighbours know each other and feel connected, communities are better able to respond to emergencies and recover together.”

The SLRD is a region prone to a variety of risks, with emergencies including landslides, floods and wildfire, among others. Emergencies can happen quickly and may limit access to essential services. PreparedBC encourages residents build an emergency kit and grab-and-go bag, while recognizing that people often rely first on those around them. 

“Strong social connections help to ensure people aren’t facing emergencies alone,” said Ford. “Knowing who might need extra support and who you can turn to makes a real difference when typical systems are disrupted.”

One of the programs that continues to see strong community support and participation throughout the region is the SLRD’s FireSmart program. With support from the Union of BC Municipalities’ Community Resiliency Investment program, the SLRD delivered a range of initiatives in 2025 to reduce wildfire risk and increase community resilience across all four Electoral Areas. The program continues, with funding secured in 2026 and 2027.

The SLRD FireSmart team will be attending a series of events taking place throughout the region in May:

Residents can find out more about FireSmart on the SLRD website: SLRD.bc.ca/firesmart

In addition to participating in FireSmart events, the SLRD is calling upon residents and visitors alike to take several simple actions before the week is over to ensure preparedness:

1. Sign-up for SLRD Alert by following the instructions on the SLRD website. 
2. Follow the SLRD Facebook, Instagram and X (Twitter) accounts for year-round hazard-specific readiness tips, and to access urgent updates during local emergencies.
3. Create a home emergency plan that can be completed easily and saved to a computer or mobile device using the Province of BC’s interactive, online tool.
4. Start building an emergency kit and grab-and-go bag – review the Province of BC’s supply list, gather items you may already have, and make a shopping list for items you are missing.