Know the hazards in your community

Wildfires are common in the Yukon from May to September. You should prepare for the possibility that a wildfire might approach your home.

Make sure you understand what to do before, during and after a wildfire.

Before a wildfire

Prepare for and prevent wildfires by:

• reporting any smoke or fire you see;
• respecting fire bans and restrictions;
• burning safely; and
• protecting your home and property

During a wildfire

Learn how to prepare your household and your property if a wildfire is approaching.

After a wildfire

Learn how to safely return to your home once the wildfire is contained and authorities have lifted any evacuation orders.

Floods usually occur in the spring and summer due to ice jams on rivers and rapid snow melt. Floods can:

• damage buildings;
• cause power outages;
• disrupt transportation;
• create landslides; and
• be hazardous for people.

Take time to prepare and understand what to do before, during and after a flood.

Before a flood

If you’re in an area that’s prone to flooding, there are some simple things you can do to prepare.

During a flood

You can stay safe during a flood by:

• understanding flood advisories and warnings;
• taking steps to protect yourself; and
• evacuating if and when you are asked to.

Stay informed

• Find water levels in Yukon lakes and rivers
• Follow emergency updates
• Find out what to do during a flood

After a flood

Returning home after a flood can be overwhelming. If you use caution and take it 1 step at a time, it’s possible to recover and return your home to normal.

Earthquakes can create many types of emergencies. There's initial danger from the shaking that can throw you to the ground or result in injury from falling objects. There's also potential for:

• building collapse;
• landslides;
• floods;
• fires; and
• electrocution.

Find out what you can do to prepare for earthquakes.

Severe weather

Severe weather is common in the Yukon. Always check for special weather statements before you travel and ensure your vehicle is equipped with:

• food;
• water; and
• emergency supplies, including warm clothing.

Visit the safe winter driving page for tips.

Power outages

A power outage is a short- or long-term loss of electric power to an area. During a power outage you may be without:

• light;
• heat; and
• hot water.

Power outages can occur at any time. They're dangerous if you rely on electricity to heat your home during the winter.

Find out what you should do during a power outage.

Disruptions can happen to the:

• phone network;
• cell phone network; and
• radio.

Find out:

• what to do when phones do not work; and
• where to get emergency information.

If you plan to travel in the mountains during winter, you should learn about avalanche safety.