Emergency Services

Emergencies can happen at any time and your best defence is to be prepared!

Whether an emergency occurs from human-caused, technological or natural means, be assured that the District of Sparwood has emergency management plans and programs in place. The nature and scope of an emergency determines which emergency plans and programs will be activated.

Find the District’s EOC Program here.

If you are experiencing and emergency, dial 911.

Emergency Preparedness

We want our community to be prepared for an emergency. Forest fires, floods, avalanches and other emergencies affect hundreds of people in British Columbia each year.

It is important to always be prepared, especially when we live in a location that is prone to heavy snowfall, freshet or wildfires. Here is what you can do:

  • Know the hazards;
  • Create an emergency kit and grab and go bag;
  • Have a plan.

Here are some excellent resources to help you and your family prepare for any kind of emergency:

In the event of an emergency requiring an evaluation alert or warning, you will receive notification from various sources which include, but are not limited to:

  • Emergency crews going door-to-door;
  • Alerts on the District of Sparwood Facebook Page & Website;
  • A static notice on the District of Sparwood electronic sign located on Aspen Drive;
  • Updates over radio local radio stations, if required;
  • A push notification through the Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) Evacuation Notification System. Sign up for this here;
  • Notification through the RDEK Facebook page & website.

Ensure you follow, listen to or view reliable new sources, such as those listed above.

More information can also be found at:

Preparing for Emergencies

All it takes is three simple steps to get prepared for emergencies:

  1. Know the risks
  2. Make a plan
  3. Get an emergency kit

Learn how to prepare for an emergency

During an Emergency

In an emergency, we will be working to ensure the safety of residents. We will work closely with utilities, businesses, provincial ministries and community partners to respond to the emergency. Follow and listen to or view the reliable news sources listed above.

Learn how to get more information during an emergency

After an Emergency

Care needs to be taken when re-entering your home after an emergency and understanding your family may need help in coping. 

Things to consider after an emergency