Emergency Planning

Shelter-in-Place Instructions

Download Shelter-in-Place instructions (PDF)

• Immediately gather everyone indoors and stay there
• Close and lock all windows and outside doors
  • If convenient, tape or fill the gaps around the exterior door and window frames
• Extinguish indoor wood burning fires
  • If possible, close flue dampers
• Turn off appliances or equipment that blows out or uses indoor air, such as:
  • Bathroom and kitchen exhaust fans
  • Built-in vacuum systems
  • Clothes dryers
  • Gas fireplaces
  • Gas stoves
• Turn off appliances or equipment that sucks in outside air, such as:
  • Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) systems for apartments, commercial or public facilities
  • Fans for Heat Recovery Ventilators or Energy Recovery Ventilators (HRV/ERV)
• Turn down furnace thermostats to the minimum setting and turn off air conditioners
• Leave open all inside doors
• Avoid using the telephone or cell phone, except for emergencies, so that networks are accessible for emergency use and you can be contacted by Town of Banff emergency response personnel if necessary
• Stay tuned to local radio, television, Town of Banff social media and website for possible information updates
• Even if you see people outside, do not leave until told to do so by Town of Banff emergency response personnel
• After the hazard or emergency has passed through the area, you will receive a "Declaration of All Clear" message from Town of Banff emergency response personnel. You may also receive if required, instructions to:
  • Ventilate your building by opening all windows and doors, turning on fans and turning up thermostats. During this time, the air outside may be fresher and you may choose to leave your building while the building is being ventilated
  • Once the building is completely ventilated, return all equipment to normal settings and operation

Evacuation

For a range of emergencies - from gas leaks to wildfire and from human violence to flooding - parts of our community may need to be evacuated. It is very important that people understand the communications that will go out to the community and the difference between an evacuation alert and an order. People should also be aware that evacuations usually affect only specific areas, so people must pay attention to descriptions and maps of areas affected.

Evacuation alert (advisory): People should prepare to evacuate soon, if situation deteriorates.

• Evacuation alerts help you prepare to leave on short notice.
• Take the actions directed, be prepared to go quickly and monitor trusted sources of information for updates.

Evacuation order (critical): People must evacuate now.

• Evacuation orders are issued when you are in danger.
• Emergency situations can change rapidly and prompt an immediate evacuation order.
• Evacuate immediately if you are located inside an order's boundaries and directed to evacuate.
• Delaying your departure can put your life at risk and hinder emergency response efforts.
• Follow the specific instructions provided by your local authorities during an evacuation.
• Always prioritize your safety and the safety of those around you.

Before an evacuation - be prepared

Residential Evacuation Checklist

Download Residential Evacuation Checklist (PDF)

Preparation

If time is available or notice of intent to evacuate the area is given, the following preparations should be immediately taken by residents:

• Alert all family members immediately;
• Maintain constant knowledge of whereabouts of all family members;
• Private motor vehicles should be prepared and fueled;
• Emergency supplies should be readied; and
• Secure or prepare to secure your home on departure.

Equipment

Most important items to take with you, time permitting, are:

• Protective clothing – clothing appropriate to the weather conditions; such as a parka, winter jackets, overcoat, rain gear, boots, gloves, etc. and extra functional clothing for an extended stay;
• Emergency equipment – first aid kit, flashlight, portable radios, batteries, basic tools, matches, candles, etc.;
• Personal items – medicines, money, personal papers, identification, etc.; and
• Emergency food and water – basic utensils, dry foods, high-energy snacks, etc.

Optional Items

The following items, if available time and space permit, could prove useful in temporary accommodations and would lessen the burden on the hosting municipality:

• Bedding – sleeping bags, extra blankets, camp cots, or air mattresses;
• Camping or portable furniture – lawn chairs, camp stoves, cooking utensils, etc.;
• Recreational materials – books, cards, games, handheld video games, etc.

Prohibited Items

Do not take alcoholic beverages, firearms, or dangerous articles with you.

Pets

Plan to take your pets with you in an evacuation. If it is not safe for you to stay, it is not safe for them either. The following should be considered:

• Ensure all pets are wearing collars with securely fastened, up-to-date identification.
• Ensure pet emergency supplies are ready, like food, water, and any medications.
• Reception Centres will try to set aside dedicated spaces where you can bring your pet with you for a period of time when accessing services, but are not places that can care for your pet in your absence.
• Know which friends or boarding facilities can care for your animals in an emergency, or which hotels in your area are pet friendly and prepare a list with phone numbers.
• Be prepared to house your pets separately –it may not be possible to have all of your pets cared for at the same location.

Security

On evacuating, residences should be secured (i.e., doors/windows locked, heat turned off/down/etc., (instruction will be issued) and "attractive" items stored indoors, time permitting.

Medications/Drugs

Special medications should be taken along with the person. Inform Registrar at the Reception Centre of your special medical needs.

During an Evacuation

It is critical that people follow specific directions from authorities during an evacuation.

People should notify others about the evacuation. Check on elderly or vulnerable neighbours who might need assistance. Secure the home, tie the ribbon on the door as directed in the Banff evacuation guide. Follow designated routes - which will change based on the circumstance and as part of traffic management. Stay calm and drive safely. If you don't have a vehicle, watch for communications about transit that is being provided.  

For details on evacuation processes, visit Alberta's tips on evacuation.

More information

• Alberta Emergency Management Agency
• FireSmart Banff
• Getprepared.ca
• Wildfire Forum