RV Travel
Understanding Canada's Wildfire Situation
Every summer, Canada experiences its fair share of wildfires, a natural phenomenon that can significantly impact travel plans for both locals and foreign tourists. Being aware of the wildfire situation and taking necessary precautions is crucial for a safe and enjoyable trip.
Canada's vast landscapes, encompassing forests, grasslands, and mountains, are prone to wildfires, particularly during the summer months. These wildfires are typically caused by a combination of natural factors, such as lightning strikes, and human activities, including campfires, cigarettes, and other forms of negligence. The severity and location of wildfires can vary across the country, with certain regions experiencing more significant risks than others.
Research and monitor wildfires
It is essential to stay updated on current wildfire conditions, as the situation can change rapidly. Local authorities and emergency management agencies provide regular updates on wildfire activity, evacuation notices, and travel advisories.
Be prepared to adjust your Itinerary
Before embarking on your RV trip, research the current wildfire situation in the regions you plan to visit. Stay updated on local news, official websites, and social media accounts of emergency management agencies. Identify alternative routes and backup destinations in case you need to adjust your travel plans. Stay in touch with campgrounds and RV parks along your route to ensure they are open and safe for use.
Here are some sources to consider:
Canada Wide
Alertable:
Alertable is an essential app for staying informed about real-time emergency alerts. Whether it's severe weather, natural disasters, or other emergencies, Alertable keeps you updated with timely notifications. You can have the app track your location to always give you local updates for the region you're traveling into—automatically!
- Website: www.alertable.ca
British Columbia
British Columbia (BC) Wildfire Service:
- Website: https://www2.gov.bc.ca
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/BCGovFireInfo
BC Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure:
- Website: https://drivebc.ca/
BC Emergency Info:
Alberta
Alberta Emergency Alerts:
- Website: https://www.emergencyalert.alberta.ca/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/AB_EmergAlert
Alberta Government – Wildfire Dashboard:
Alberta Traveller Information Service:
- Website: https://511.alberta.ca/
Yukon
Yukon Wildland Fire Management:
- Website: https://yukon.ca/en/get-wildfire-updates
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/yukonps
Yukon Traveller Information Service:
- Website: https://511yukon.ca
Nova Scotia
Nova Scotia Fire Weather Index:
Government of Nova Scotia:
- Website: https://novascotia.ca/alerts/
Department of Natural Resources and Renewables – Campfire Safety:
Nova Scotia Ministry of Transportation:
- Website: https://511.novascotia.ca/
Canada's summer wildfires are a natural part of the country's ecosystem, but they can pose challenges to local and foreign travellers.
Remember, the safety of you and your fellow travellers is paramount. Stay vigilant, be prepared, and prioritize your well-being during your RV trip in Canada. By staying informed and following local guidelines, you can mitigate risks and have a safe and enjoyable adventure.
Disclaimer: While we endeavour to keep the information up to date and correct, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability, or availability. Any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk. The inclusion of any suggestions does not necessarily imply a recommendation or endorse the views expressed within them.
