Not all emergencies are the same but knowing what’s most likely to happen in Esquimalt can help you prepare in the right way.
This section breaks down the key hazards in our region, what to expect, and the simple actions you can take before, during, and after each one. Whether it’s an earthquake, a power outage, or a heatwave, being informed is the first step toward staying safe.
Capital Regional District Emergency Dashboard
What to expect:
Vancouver Island sits in an active seismic zone. A major earthquake could cause severe shaking, broken infrastructure, power outages, and road closures. You may have only seconds to react.
Before:
- Secure heavy furniture and hot water tanks.
- Make sure each family member knows how to Drop, Cover, and Hold On.
- Keep sturdy shoes, a flashlight, and gloves near your bed.
- Build a kit with enough supplies for 7+ days.
During:
- Indoors? Drop, Cover, and Hold On. Stay where you are until the shaking stops.
- Outdoors? Move to an open area, away from buildings and power lines.
- Driving? Pull over and stop in a safe place. Stay inside the vehicle.
After:
- Check yourself and others for injuries.
- Expect aftershocks. Re-check safety of your surroundings often.
- Turn off gas only if you smell it or hear hissing.
- Be ready to shelter in place for several days without power or help.
Resources:
What to expect:
Esquimalt is in a Tsunami Notification Zone but not in a high-risk inundation zone. If a tsunami threat is identified, BC’s Alert Ready system will notify residents. You usually have over 90 minutes of lead time.
Before:
- Know the difference between a Tsunami Alert and a Tsunami Warning.
- Review the local tsunami map to see where you live or work in relation to high ground.
- Talk about evacuation plans with your household.
During:
- If you feel a strong earthquake and are near the coast, move inland or to higher ground immediately don’t wait for an official alert.
- Follow evacuation instructions from trusted authorities.
- Avoid the shoreline. Tsunamis can arrive as multiple waves hours apart.
After:
- Stay away from evacuated zones until authorities declare them safe.
- Monitor updates from official sources.
- Do not return home until you’re told it’s safe to do so.
Resources:
- CRD Tsunami Inundation Map
- Tsunami FAQs
What to expect:
Hot, dry summers and unpredictable storms are now part of our climate reality. Extreme heat can be dangerous—especially for children, older adults, and people with chronic health conditions. Sudden storms can knock out power or block roads.
Before:
- Know where your closest cooling location is (e.g. Esquimalt Recreation Centre).
- Set up at least one cool room in your home—preferably in the basement or away from direct sunlight.
- Keep extra water, shelf-stable food, a fan, and a thermometer on hand.
- Plan to check on neighbours, especially those who live alone.
- Sign up for Esquimalt Alert to receive local weather warnings.
During a heat event:
- Drink water regularly—even if you’re not thirsty.
- Avoid outdoor activity during the hottest part of the day (usually 1–5 pm).
- Use fans, damp cloths, and cool showers to stay comfortable.
- Keep blinds or curtains closed to block sun.
- Never leave people or pets in parked vehicles.
During a storm or high wind warning:
- Stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel.
- Charge your phone and battery-powered devices.
- Secure outdoor furniture or objects that could blow away.
- Avoid using candles. Use flashlights or battery lanterns instead.
- Report downed trees or lines to the municipality or BC Hydro.
After the event:
- Continue to drink fluids and rest.
- Check on others who may have been affected.
- Watch for signs of heat illness (confusion, fainting, headaches, rapid breathing).
- If power or services were disrupted, follow safety guidance for food and electronics.
- Learn from the event—what worked, what didn’t, and what to update in your plan.
Resources:
What to expect:
Outages can happen after storms, earthquakes, or equipment failure. In major events, power could be out for days. Be ready to manage without heat, light, cooking, and phone charging.
Before:
- Store flashlights (not candles), batteries, and a battery-powered radio.
- Keep your phone charged and have a backup power source if possible.
- Have extra blankets, water, and ready-to-eat food.
- Know how to manually open garage doors and use non-electric options.
During:
- Use flashlights or battery lanterns for light.
- Limit fridge/freezer opening to preserve food.
- Avoid carbon monoxide risks: never use BBQs or generators indoors.
- Listen to radio updates or check the BC Hydro outage map.
After:
- Check food safety—when in doubt, throw it out.
- Restock your kit and charge your backup power once power is restored.
- Report downed lines or hazards to BC Hydro.
Resources:
What to expect:
While Esquimalt is not in a wildfire risk zone, structure fires and smoke from regional wildfires can still pose serious risks.
Before:
- Install and test smoke alarms monthly.
- Keep a fire extinguisher and learn how to use it.
- Plan and practice two ways out of every room.
- Prepare a grab-and-go bag in case of a sudden evacuation.
During (structure fire):
- Get low and go. Crawl under smoke.
- Leave belongings. Get everyone out fast.
- Call 911 from outside. Never re-enter a burning building.
During (smoke event):
- Stay indoors, close windows and doors.
- Use an air purifier or set up a clean-air room.
- Reduce physical activity and avoid smoking or burning indoors.
After (structure fire):
- If you have insurance, contact your provider as soon as possible to start a claim and begin the recovery process.
- If you don’t have insurance or need immediate help, Emergency Support Services (ESS) may provide short-term support such as accommodation, food, and basic needs.
- Do not re-enter the building until it has been declared safe.
After (smoke event):
- Ventilate your space by opening windows and doors once the air quality improves.
- Replace air filters or clean purifier units if used during the event.
- Wash bedding, clothing, and surfaces that may have absorbed smoke.
- Check in on children, older adults, or anyone with breathing issues, as they may feel the effects longer.
- Restock any supplies used, especially masks, filters, or medications.
Resources:
What to expect:
Less common, but still important to understand. These include:
- Hazardous Materials Spills (e.g., from vehicles, industry, or transport)
- Air Quality Events (including from wildfires, chemical leaks, or dust storms)
- Infectious Disease or Pandemic Events
General tips:
- Follow instructions from health or emergency officials.
- Shelter-in-place if advised (e.g., stay indoors, close ventilation).
- Use masks or filters if air quality is poor.
- Keep a stock of medications and hygiene supplies.