With heavy precipitation predicted for this weekend– the first of many expected this fall and winter – Port Coquitlam is encouraging residents to ensure they are prepared for any emergencies. City staff are actively monitoring conditions and working to prevent flooding throughout the community.
Heavy rainfall can overwhelm drainage systems, leading to flooding, particularly in low-lying areas. High winds can knock down trees, damage power lines, and create flying debris. While it’s impossible to predict the full impact on Port Coquitlam, severe weather events are becoming more common. Residents and businesses are urged to be ready to be self-sufficient for at least 72 hours.
Emergency preparedness information can be found at portcoquitlam.ca/ep including the City’s “Are You Prepared?” guide, which outlines steps to take before, during, and after major emergencies such as storms, earthquakes, or floods. Printed copies are also available at City facilities. Additional resources include a business emergency preparedness toolkit and free community courses, which are offered throughout the year.
Download the Alertable App
Residents are encouraged to download the Alertable app to receive emergency alerts from Port Coquitlam. This service keeps users informed about emergencies, such as fires, floods, earthquakes, storms, and other hazards. The Alertable app is available for free from the Apple Store, Google Play, or at portcoquitlam.ca/alertable.
Notifications can be customized by type, severity, and sound level. All users receive critical alerts for large-scale emergencies and disasters, including evacuation alerts and orders.
Tips for Getting Prepared:
- Review the resources at portcoquitlam.ca/ep and consider signing up for a free course.
- Create an emergency plan that all household members understand, and practice it regularly. The plan should include instructions for shutting off utilities, safe meeting places outside the home, an out-of-province contact, and plans for pets.
- Prepare to be self-sufficient for at least 72 hours: Have a three-day supply of food and water for each family member, a wind-up or battery-powered radio, flashlight, extra batteries, prescription medications, important documents, and seasonally appropriate clothing.
- Pack extra supplies, keys, contact information, and critical paperwork in a portable “grab-and-go” kit that’s easy to access.
Tips for Before a Major Storm:
- Keep catch basins near your property clear of debris to prevent street flooding, and report any issues at portcoquitlam.ca/report or via the PoCo Sort & Report app.
- Move valuable items from low-lying areas to prevent damage.
- Consider moving vehicles to street-level parking if they are in underground parkades.
- Charge devices and battery packs before the storm. If using a portable generator, follow safety instructions and never use it indoors or in enclosed spaces. Battery-operated lighting is safer than candles.
- Review and update your emergency kit and plan, including:
- Ensuring each family member has identification, such as name tags, wallet cards, or wristbands.
- Reminding family members of your emergency meeting place and out-of-area contact.
- Identifying communication channels, such as the City’s social media, website, and the Alertable app.
Tips for During a Major Storm:
- Report flooding, downed trees, or other issues on City property at portcoquitlam.ca/report, calling 604-927-3111 or on the PoCo Sort & Report app. Trees on private property are the owner’s responsibility.
- Report downed power lines to 9-1-1 and BC Hydro: 1-888-POWER-ON. If you come across a downed or damaged power line, stay back at least 10 metres (30 feet).
- Call 9-1-1 only for emergencies that pose an immediate threat to people or property. Use non-emergency numbers for other concerns.
- Limit travel when possible. If travel is necessary, avoid flooded areas and use four-way stop procedures when traffic signals are not working.
- Preserve food during power outages by limiting the opening of refrigerators and freezers. Inspect food for safety before consumption, and when in doubt, throw it out.
- Check on neighbours who may need assistance, including seniors, those with special needs, or families with young children.
For additional information, visit the City’s website and social media accounts or check portcoquitlam.ca/sportsfields for field closure information and status updates or call 604-927-5455 for a recorded message.
Port Coquitlam’s Emergency Preparedness Program helps residents, businesses, and civic employees prepare for disasters or major emergencies. The City offers training and resources to support the community during these events.
For information about the program (inclusive of volunteer opportunities), contact [email protected] or 604-927-5460.