The City of Campbell River is part of the Strathcona Emergency Program. The City is also supported by Emergency Management Climate Readiness. During major incidents or emergencies, local plans developed by the City of Campbell River or Strathcona Regional District are activated. These plans are implemented by emergency responders and staff at the local level and supported by the province through Emergency Management BC.
Be Prepared
Disasters can happen anytime, and potentially leave your household on its own for several days.
There are three steps to preparedness:
- Know the hazards
- Gather your supplies
- Make your plan
Visit PreparedBC to Find Out More
Get Prepared - Government of Canada
Emergency Notifications
Strathcona Regional District Emergency Notifications
Local programs are developed collaboratively with the Strathcona Regional District. This ensures the highest level of support to residents. These plans have been used over the years in times of flooding, landslides, and COVID-19. The Strathcona Regional District offers a free notification service to keep residents, visitors and businesses informed of emergencies in a timely manner.
Find Out More and Sign Up for SRD Emergency Notifications
Alertable Public Alerts App
Never miss an emergency alert with the Alertable app. The Alertable app is free and can be downloaded onto your mobile phone, tablet, computer, or smart speaker. Downloading the app is optional, and without the app, you will still receive phone calls and text messages. Alertable will cover every area of the City and the Stratcona Regional District.
If you know someone who wishes to receive notifications but does not have internet access, please sign up for them. Or, have them call the Strathcona Emergency Program at 250-830-6702.
Natural Disaster Preparedness
Flood Evacuation Area
In the event of a major earthquake or severe storm, some areas of Campbell River may be subject to flooding risk.
Extreme Weather Plan
Extreme weather events like coastal storms and droughts are among the top risks that threaten community stability. Extreme weather events are a current health risk. As climate continues to change, extreme weather events are expected to increase in frequency, duration, and severity. Older adults, the chronically ill, and socially disadvantaged people, among others, are more vulnerable to health effects related to extreme weather events.
The goal of the Campbell River Extreme Weather Plan is to provide a scalable and flexible operational plan to guide the City’s response to an extreme weather event. The plan outlines the strategy and best practices to coordinate an efficient and organized response.
View the Extreme Weather Plan [PDF/2.6MB]
Warming Centre Activations
The Extreme Weather Plan guides the City's response to severe weather events, including the activation of a warming centre to support vulnerable residents during the winter season.
The warming centre is activated when certain provincial criteria are met. The centre may be activated overnight at the City Manager's discretion when Environment Canada forecasts temperatures of -4°C or lower, or when there is a forecast low of 0°C or colder within 24 hours with an Environment Canada weather warning.
The warming centre provides a safe, warm space overnight for people experiencing homelessness and others in need during extreme cold weather:
- When active, the warming centre is located at the Campbell River Community (401 11th Avenue).
- Guests are welcome to bring pets (on leashes) and belongings, including bikes and carts.
- Hot drinks, snacks, and seating are available, but beds are not provided.
- The centre is staffed by individuals experienced in supporting people experiencing homelessness, ensuring necessary support is available.
The operation of the warming centre is a collaborative effort involving City staff, local social service organizations, volunteers, and contractors. Funding for the warming centre is provided by the Province through Emergency Management Climate Readiness, with additional support from the City.
Earthquake Preparedness
Visit the ShakeOut BC website for information about what to do before, during, and after an earthquake.
Wildfire Preparedness
Visit the Fire Smart Canada website for information on wildfire preparedness at home and while camping.
Campbell River Community Wildfire Protection Plan [PDF/44.7MB]
Strathcona Regional District Area D - Community Wildfire Resiliency Plan