Emergency Information Update: August 1, 2024 at 11:30 a.m. - Evacuation Order Update/Downgrade

The Evacuation Order issued by the Golden and Area Emergency Management Program due to the Dogtooth wildfire near Parson has as been DOWNGRADED to an Evacuation Alert for the following areas on the west side of Highway 95: 

  • 2062, 2103, 2105, 2122, 2128, 2146, Highway 95

Residents in these areas may now return home but remain on alert. Residents are advised there may be unseen dangers when returning to their homes and properties. 

The Evacuation Order for the remaining properties on the west side of the Columbia River REMAINS in place and includes:

  • Rauch Rd.
  • Malone Rd.
  • Parson River Crossing FSR 
  • Thomas Rd.
  • 2104 Highway 95 S

Please consult the comprehensive evacuation map online to determine if your property falls under this alert: CSRD Emergency Information Map

For information regarding wildfires in the Golden area and across the province, visit www.bcwildfire.ca or download the BC Wildfire Service app. For specific questions regarding BC Wildfire operations, contact the BC Wildfire public information line at 1-888-336-7378. 

Re-entering your home

What you should do when re-entering your home:

  • Bring supplies like flashlights, tools, drinking water, gloves, garbage bags and a first aid kit.
  • Walk around the perimeter before entering, noting electrical wiring, any gas smell or debris that could fall. 
  • Enter your home cautiously and check the main power breaker is off.
  • Only use generators outdoors; do not connect to a household circuit.
  • Note sewage and water damage; your septic system or sump pump may not work without power, and water may not be potable (that is, may not be safe to consume).
  • Do not use your sewage disposal system unless you know it’s capable of handling waste.
  • If using propane, gas or heating oil, contact suppliers for inspection and service.
  • Discard refrigerated food that has spoiled or has been stored in a refrigerator that has lost power. When in doubt, throw it out.
  • If your freezer has been exposed to fire or has been without power for more than three days, discard the contents.
  • Discard foods/items exposed to heat, ash, chemicals, soot, water and smoke, as well as damaged, dented or bulging cans; clean and sanitize cans exposed to smoke only. Food stored in glass jars and exposed to heat should be thrown out.
  • Don't hesitate to ask for help for mental or psychological recovery. The BC Mental Health Support Line is open 24 hours a day at 310-6789 (no area code). 
  • If loss of property has been identified, call your insurance representative to start your claim.

Continue to monitor the Town of Golden website at www.golden.ca, the Town of Golden’s Facebook and Instagram pages, the BC Wildfire app or website at www.bcwildfire.ca, or local news sources for up-to-date and accurate information. Or sign up for Alertable, our emergency mass notification system, at www.csrd.bc.ca/alertable 

Provincial Disaster Recovery Resources

For more information, contact: 

Golden and Area Emergency Operations Centre Phone: 250-344-7473

Evacuation Order Information

What you should do when an EVACUATION ORDER is in effect:

  • Please ensure you read this entire document.
  • Please proceed to the Reception Center located at the Golden Senior Centre 1401 9 St S, Golden, BC
  • If you are impacted by this evacuation and need assistance, please call 250-344-7473
  • Close and lock all windows and doors. Shut off gas and electrical appliances, other than refrigerators and freezers. 
  • Gather your family. Take pets in pet kennels or on a leash. 
  • Take critical items (medicine, purse, wallet, keys and grab-and-go bag) only if they are immediately available.   
  • Do not use more vehicles than needed. If time permits, check with neighbours and assist those with special needs.
  • Assist your local Emergency Support Services Team by self-registering now on the Evacuee Registration and Assistance website at ess.gov.bc.ca.   

Evacuation Alert Information

An EVACUATION ALERT remains in effect for all properties south of Champagne Rd. to approximately 2km south of Parson.

What you should do when an Evacuation Alert is in effect:

  • Locate your grab-and-go bags for you and your family. Gather essential items such as medications, eyeglasses, valuable papers, and immediate care needs for dependents. Replenish any items that have expired or need replacement, ensure you and your family members have enough clothing and incidentals for a 72-hour period and have these items readily available for quick departure. See www.preparedbc.ca for details.
  • If you are aware of vulnerable people who may need support should there be an Evacuation Order or if you need support moving livestock contact Kyle Hale, Emergency Management Program Coordinator at 250-344-7473
  • Assist your local Emergency Support Services Team by self-registering now on the Evacuee Registration and Assistance website at http://ess.gov.bc.ca/
  • Contact family members, advise them of the situation and determine a meeting location outside of the evacuation area where you can safely reconnect should the area be evacuated.
  • Accommodation in the area can be limited. Make arrangements to stay with family or friends, if possible.
  • Take care of your pets or any other animals by moving them to a safe location. Make plans for their care if you will not be at home.
  • Arrange transportation for all household members. Prepare to move any disabled persons and/or children. 
  • Regularly monitor the Town of Golden website at www.golden.ca, the Town of Golden’s Facebook and Instagram pages, the BC Wildfire app or website at www.bcwildfire.ca, or local news sources for up-to-date and accurate information. Or sign up for Alertable, our emergency mass notification system, at www.csrd.bc.ca/alertable 
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