On August 5, 2026, the Golden and Area Emergency Management Program activated its Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) at Level 1.
At this time, the activation is precautionary and is intended to ensure the EOC is appropriately staffed, coordinating daily with the BC Wildfire Service (BCWS) and partner agencies, monitoring conditions closely, and positioned to respond promptly should circumstances change. There is currently no threat to the Town of Golden or Electoral Area A.
"A Level 1 EOC activation allows the staff to monitor the situation more closely, coordinate internal resources as needed and support regional emergency management partners," said Dena Denton, Golden and Area Emergency Management Program Coordinator.
The Golden and Area Emergency Management Program and the Town of Golden work closely with the Columbia Shuswap Regional District, BC Wildfire Service, Emergency Support Services (ESS) and other partner agencies to share information and support response efforts. Learn more about the Golden and Area Emergency Management Program.
Residents are encouraged to stay informed through official sources and to be prepared in the event emergency information or alerts are issued:
- 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.
- The best way to keep track of reliable, up-to-date information during an emergency, including evacuation alerts or orders, is to monitor the Town of Golden website at www.golden.ca, the Town of Golden Facebook or Instagram pages or sign up for the Alertable system at www.csrd.bc.ca/alertable.
- To report smoke, wildfire, unattended campfire, or irresponsible behaviour that could start a wildfire, call 1-800-663-5555 toll-free or *5555 on a cellphone or submit a report through the BC Wildfire Service app.
Remember that wildfire situations can evolve quickly, be prepared and stay tuned to official news sources. Below are some tips on what you can do to be prepared in case of an emergency. Visit Prepared BC or the Get Prepared website for more information and resources.
- Build a 72-hour kit for your home. Ensure you have enough food, water, and supplies for every person in your household to be self-sufficient for three days. This should include four litres of water per person per day, non-perishable food, flashlight, batteries, radio, first aid, cash and phone/device chargers.
- Pack a grab-and-go bag. Include medications and prescriptions, copies of identification and insurance, glasses, device chargers, a change of clothes, comfort items for kids, and pet supplies including food, leash, carrier and vaccination records.
- Make a plan. The people you live with may not be together following an emergency. Make it easier to find each other by choosing emergency meeting places ahead of time. Plan your route out and have a second route in case the first is inaccessible. Get to know your neighbours. Connecting and building relationships with them today will mean a better response and faster recovery.
- Keep your tank over half full. Fuel stations can be busy, closed or without power exactly when you need them.
- FireSmart your home. Clear needles and leaves from roofs and gutters. Move firewood, propane and anything flammable well away from the house. Keep a 1.5-metre, non-combustible zone right around your foundation. Trim branches back from the roof. Mow and water. Small jobs can make a big difference.
- Stay informed.
- Alertable is a free mass notification system to help you stay safe, plan ahead and be in the know before and during an emergency or evacuation. Residents of Golden and Area A can sign up now at www.csrd.bc.ca/alertable.
- Download the BC Wildfire Service app or check out wildfiresituation.nrs.gov.bc.ca
- Check DriveBC for road closures.
- Report a wildfire: 1-800-663-5555 or *5555 from a cell.
For more information on our local Emergency Management Program and emergency preparedness, contact:
Golden and Area Emergency Management Program Coordinator
- Phone: 250-272-0789
- Email: eoc@golden.ca