How to Keep Children Safe Before, During and After a Wildfire

Wildfires are become increasingly more frequent and devastating in Canada, putting children’s lives and futures at greater risk. 

To help you better understand what risks wildfires pose, and how to safely prepare for them, we’re answering some frequently asked questions below. 

What are wildfires? 

Wildfires are a natural hazard that occur when an uncontrolled fire spreads through areas such as forests, fields, and parks. Their size, direction and intensity can change quickly depending on factors such as wind, weather and the surrounding landscape. In Canada, climate change is affecting the frequency, size and spread of wildfires. Warmer temperatures, less snow, and drier conditions all increase the risk of wildfires and can help them spread more easily. As a result, children, families and communities are experiencing the impacts of climate change and wildfires firsthand.

Children are especially vulnerable to poor air quality. Their lungs are still developing, and they breathe faster than adults, meaning they take in more smoke with every breath. Wildfires can also destroy or disrupt infrastructure critical to children’s well-being, including schools, homes, health facilities and transportation, threatening the places and services children rely on to feel safe, learn and grow. 

Who are most at risk of experiencing wildfires? 

Indigenous children are disproportionately impacted by wildfires. According to the Canadian Climate Institute, 80% of majority-Indigenous communities are located in regions at risk of wildfires, and more than 42% of wildfire evacuations have taken place in these communities 

Through our National Reconciliation Program, we work alongside First Nations, Métis and Inuit Nations, communities and organizations across Canada to prepare for, respond to and recover from wildfires. This includes providing emergency kits to families affected by wildfires, with essential items such as food, clothing, and educational materials for children. We also support child-friendly evacuation spaces, ensuring children are comfortable and safe, recognizing the impact on their mental wellness  

First Nations, Inuit and Métis children are also amongst the most vulnerable to climate change. Learn more about our work with Indigenous communities to reduce the impact of disasters and build resilience in the face of inequities here. 

How do I prepare for a wildfire? 

As wildfires become more frequent, it’s more important than ever to be prepared in case an emergency occurs. The Government of Canada has a dedicated page for wildfires preparedness. Save the Children also offers these wildfire safety tips to show parents what to do in the event of an emergency.

1 – Learn about wildfires together

Talk with children about what wildfires are and what your family can do to stay safe if one occurs. Use simple, age-appropriate language. 

2 – Know your wildfire risk.

Get informed about whatrisk wildfires pose to your area, particularly if you live near forests, in rural areas, or in a dry climate. Contact your local fire department, state forestry office, or other emergency response agencies for information on fire laws and wildfire risk.

3 – Learn about caregivers’ disaster plans.

If your child’s school or childcare center is in an area at risk for wildfires,learn their wildfire emergency plan and evacuation plan. You may be required to pick up children from another location. Review these plans with your children.

4 – Practice evacuation drills.

Practice evacuation drills with children to ensure they can evacuate quickly and safely if a wildfire occurs. Plan and practice two different routes from your neighborhood,learn about your evacuation routes with your household and pets, and identify alternative destinations in case one route is blocked. 

What should I do during a wildfire?

5- Stay informed.

If a wildfire is approaching, stay up to date through local news, official governmentwebsites, and emergency alert systems. Follow the instructions of local officials, who will provide information about evacuation orders, alerts, and the safest routes out of the area.

6 – Have supplies ready.

If you must evacuate, wear protective clothing such as sturdy shoes, long pants (denim, cotton or wool is best) and long-sleeved shirts and gloves. Make sure to have your wildfire emergency supplies ready by building a kit that includes basic emergency items. 

Lock your home and take a wildfire emergency kit with you.

7 – Avoid smoke and fumes.

Keep children, babies and infants away from areas where there is smoke or fumes and stay indoors if possible. Smoke produced by the wildfire may cause breathing problems or contain poisonous toxins. 

The Government of Canada also notes that wildfire smoke can irritate your lungs, cause inflammation and affect your immune system. Take extra care to protect children against wildfire smoke. Children with asthma and chronic health issues may have more symptoms, including trouble breathing, when smoke or ash is present. 

 What should I do after a wildfire?

8 – Use caution when returning to a burned area.

Get permission from fire officials before returning to a burned area. Look out for hazards such as fallen wires and ash pits and be alert as fire re-ignition may be possible

9 – Clean up safely.

Follow public health guidance on safe cleanup of fire ash and safe use of masks and/or respirators. Keep children away from burned sites until cleanup is complete.

10 – Help children cope.

Wildfires can be frightening and stressful for children. Talk to your child about what happened, give them space to ask questions, and help them return to familiar routines when possible.