If you're travelling in the Yukon wilderness, help may be far away. Weather, terrain and wildfires can make rescue difficult.
Make sure you can stay safe during potential emergencies and help rescuers find you.
Before you go:
- check wildfire and emergency updates;
- have an emergency kit and supplies; and
- have a personal locator beacon or satellite phone.
To ensure you're prepared, practice AventureSmart's 3 T's.
- Trip plan
- Train
- Take the essentials
Contact emergency services
Only activate your distress beacon if necessary.
If you're in an emergency in the wilderness, call 911 or dial 867-667-5555.
Travelling during wildfire season
You may experience smoke when you travel during wildfire season. Know your limits, take breaks and change your plans if smoke affects your health or route.
Wildfires are often less active in the morning. Check the situation before you leave each day and turn back or change your route if you're unsure.
Visit the wildfire hub to see active wildfires.
Check road conditions on 511 Yukon.
Get smoke forecasts from FireSmoke Canada.
Travelling by waterway
If you're travelling by kayak, canoe or other watercrafts, wildfires can:
- create heavy smoke;
- reduce visibility;
- change access to put-in and take-out points; and
- make rescue or evacuation more difficult.
We do not close rivers to public use when wildfires are active. You must decide whether it's safe to start or continue your trip.