Photo: BC Wildfire Service

Emergency Management B.C. is providing evacuees with steps on how to make the transition back home easier and more safe.

Local authorities may have planned specific safe routes along the way, and it is important to follow them.

Once home, and if it is safe to enter, you should do the following:

• Take steps to secure your property.
• Bring supplies like flashlights, tools, drinking water, gloves, garbage bags and a first aid kit.
• Walk around the perimeter before entering, noting electrical wiring, any gas smell or debris that could fall. Enter cautiously and check the main power breaker is off.
• Only use generators outdoors; do not connect to a household circuit.
• Note sewage and water damage; your septic system or sump pump may not work without power, and water may not be safe to consume.
• Do not use your sewage disposal system unless you know it's capable of handling waste.
• If using propane, gas or heating oil, contact suppliers for inspection and service.

Go over important insurance details:

• Review your policy to understand what items to list, then take an inventory for your claim.
• Take photos or videos, noting serial numbers if possible and the approximate cost.
• Notify your mortgage company and inform them about restoration of your property.
• If you have questions about your home insurance, call your insurance representative.
• Your insurance policy may cover house cleaning by a fire restoration specialist. 

Food and drinking water safety:

• Food can be damaged by unsafe temperatures, smoke, ash, soot, fire retardant chemicals, water and loss of power.
• Discard spoiled food and food that has been stored in a refrigerator that has lost power. 
• If your freezer has been exposed to fire or has been without power for more than three days, discard the contents.
• Photograph foods you discard; the information may be required for insurance purposes.
• Do not drink tap water unless local officials have assured you that it's safe. If you are on a well or cistern that has been damaged, assume the water is not safe to drink, and contact your local authority for instructions.

For more information, visit this link.