location risk assessment

Plan before you go

Careful planning is essential for a coordinated evacuation. If you’re working in an area prone to wildfires, your production
crew and performers must know who is responsible for leading and managing the evacuation, evacuation routes, communication methods, and emergency contacts. Planning must also include support for individuals who require special assistance.

Have at least two evacuation routes from every site, and update them as conditions change. Check DriveBC.ca for the latest
road and weather reports.

Assign responsibilities for planning an emergency evacuation, developing procedures, training workers, and coordinating an evacuation. You need to conduct and document a location risk assessment before an emergency arises. Use this risk assessment as a basis for your
emergency response plan.

Keep vehicles emergency ready

When fire risk is high, have every production vehicle ready to leave on short notice. Ensure that a pre-trip vehicle inspection is conducted and vehicles are maintained. They need sufficient fuel and working lights and brakes. Smoke can reduce visibility, so check headlights, tail lights, and hazard flashers.

Load and secure gear so it won’t block sightlines or shift during transport. Don’t overload trailers or trucks as this may affect vehicle handling.

Drive calmly, with care

Wildfire zones may include winding roads, steep grades, and tight shoulders. Smoke, ash, emergency vehicles, and panicked drivers can make driving more challenging. 

Instruct drivers to drive with their lights on, follow directions from emergency personnel, avoid distractions, and keep a safe distance from other vehicles. Convoys should maintain visual contact without following too closely. Ensure that drivers who operate larger or equipment-heavy vehicles are trained, experienced, and properly licensed.

Watch for alerts and orders

The BC Wildfire Service provides fire danger ratings by region and uses alerts to communicate evacuation notices. 

If an evacuation order is issued, follow it immediately and precisely. Keep radios or phones tuned to official channels for updates. Stick to the designated routes. Don’t try shortcuts or back roads as they may be blocked, unsafe, or lead deeper into fire zones.

Safety on the road

Fatigue and stress can impair judgment, especially during a fast-moving evacuation. Plan for workers to ride together to share driving and reduce the number of vehicles on the evacuation route. A coordinated evacuation must ensure that all workers are accounted for at the final destination. Check-in procedures must be part of your evacuation plan.

Limit exposure to smoke

Inhaling smoke-filled air can harm cardiovascular and respiratory health, and cause headaches and fatigue. Smoke can also irritate the eyes, impairing vision. Close vehicle windows and air vents. Use air conditioning in air-recirculation mode to help prevent smoke and pollutants from entering the cabin. 

Pack NIOSH-approved respirators such as N95 or P100 respirators. Make sure workers are fitted properly for the respirator and trained in its use, and that they follow proper procedures for respiratory protection.