What to Do in a Wildfire Emergency: Essential First Aid Tips Everyone Should Know

Wildfire season has become an unfortunate reality across British Columbia and much of Canada. While firefighters work tirelessly to protect communities, knowing how to respond during a wildfire emergency can help keep you and your family safe.

Whether you're evacuating your home, helping a neighbour, or spending time outdoors, understanding basic first aid and emergency preparedness can make a significant difference when every second counts.

Stay Safe First

Before providing first aid to anyone else, make sure the area is safe. Never enter an active fire zone or put yourself in danger. If authorities have issued an evacuation order, leave immediately and follow designated evacuation routes.

Your safety is always the first priority.

Treating Burns

Burns are one of the most common injuries during a wildfire emergency.

For minor burns:

• Cool the burn under cool (not ice-cold) running water for at least 20 minutes.

• Remove jewellery or tight clothing before swelling begins.

• Cover the burn with a clean, non-stick dressing or sterile gauze.

• Do not apply butter, oils, toothpaste, or other home remedies.

For serious burns:

• Call 911 immediately.

• Do not remove clothing that is stuck to the burn.

• Cover the burn loosely with a clean cloth or sterile dressing.

• Monitor the person's breathing and watch for signs of shock while waiting for emergency responders.

Recognizing Smoke Inhalation

Wildfire smoke contains harmful gases and tiny particles that can affect anyone, especially children, older adults, pregnant individuals, and people with asthma or heart conditions.

Signs of smoke inhalation may include:

• Persistent coughing

• Difficulty breathing

• Wheezing

• Chest tightness

• Headache

• Dizziness

• Confusion

• Soot around the nose or mouth

If someone is experiencing smoke inhalation:

• Move them to fresh air immediately.

• Loosen tight clothing.

• Encourage slow, calm breathing.

• Call 911 if breathing is difficult, symptoms worsen, or the person becomes unconscious.

Recognize Heat-Related Illness

Wildfires often occur during extreme heat, increasing the risk of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

Signs of heat exhaustion include:

• Heavy sweating

• Weakness

• Nausea

• Dizziness

• Muscle cramps

Move the person to a cool area, provide water if they are alert, and cool them with damp cloths or fans.

If they develop confusion, stop sweating, or lose consciousness, they may be experiencing heat stroke—a life-threatening emergency that requires immediate medical attention.

Preparing a Wildfire Emergency Kit

Being prepared before an emergency happens can reduce stress during an evacuation.

Consider including:

• First aid kit

• Prescription medications

• Bottled water

• Non-perishable food

• Flashlight and extra batteries

• Phone charger or power bank

• N95 respirator masks (to help reduce exposure to wildfire smoke)

• Copies of important documents

• Extra clothing and blankets

• Pet supplies, if needed

Keep your emergency kit in an easily accessible location and review it regularly.

During an Evacuation

If you receive an evacuation alert or order:

• Leave as soon as instructed.

• Bring your emergency kit.

• Wear long sleeves, long pants, sturdy footwear, and if available, an N95 mask to reduce smoke exposure.

• Keep your vehicle fuelled whenever wildfire conditions are present.

• Stay informed through official emergency alerts and local authorities.

Avoid driving through heavy smoke or areas where visibility is severely reduced unless absolutely necessary.

Know the Signs of Shock

Traumatic injuries, severe burns, or emotional distress can cause shock.

Symptoms include:

• Pale, cool, clammy skin

• Rapid breathing

• Fast, weak pulse

• Restlessness or anxiety

• Confusion

• Loss of consciousness

If you suspect someone is in shock:

• Call 911.

• Lay the person flat if it is safe to do so.

• Keep them warm with a blanket.

• Do not give food or drink if they may require surgery or are unconscious.

• Continue monitoring their breathing until help arrives.

First Aid Training Saves Lives

Wildfire emergencies can happen with little warning. Having first aid training gives you the confidence to respond effectively while waiting for emergency medical services.

A certified first aid course teaches you how to:

• Respond to burns and smoke inhalation

• Recognize medical emergencies

• Perform CPR

• Use an AED

• Manage bleeding and shock

• Stay calm during high-stress situations

These are practical skills that can make a real difference during emergencies at home, at work, or in your community.

Be Prepared Before Wildfire Season

While no one can prevent every emergency, being prepared can help reduce injuries and improve outcomes.

Review your family's emergency plan, maintain a well-stocked first aid kit, stay informed about local wildfire conditions, and ensure your first aid certification is up to date.

When emergencies happen, preparation and knowledge are two of the most valuable tools you can have.

Learn First Aid with Provincial First Aid

At Provincial First Aid, we provide WorkSafeBC-approved first aid courses that equip individuals and workplaces with the skills needed to respond confidently in emergencies.

Whether you're renewing your certification or taking a course for the first time, our experienced instructors deliver practical, hands-on training that prepares you for real-life situations—including emergencies that can occur during British Columbia's wildfire season.

Contact Provincial First Aid today to register for your next first aid course and help make your workplace, family, and community safer.