Technology and industrial accidents are disasters that occur as a result of human action rather than forces of nature.
Carbon monoxide is an insidious and deadly gas that has no colour, smell, or taste. Because it is imperceptible, hundreds of people die from carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning caused by unknown leaks every year.
Any vehicle or appliance, including furnaces, that burns fuel may emit carbon monoxide. It is recommended that carbon monoxide detectors are placed throughout the home to alert people if a leak occurs.
How to prepare
Know the symptoms of CO poisoning:
- Headache
- Dizziness,
- Chest pain
- Nausea and vomiting
- Irritability and agitation
- Confusion
Eventually, someone with CO poisoning may become lethargic, then unconscious.
What to do during a CO leak
If you suspect a CO leak:
- Move everyone outdoors immediately, if possible leaving your windows and door open.
- Call 9-1-1.
- Call FortisBC at 1-800-663-9911.
Do not return to your home until a professional has identified the source of CO and the problem has been corrected.
Learn more about CO poisoning
If there is a hazardous materials spill in your area and it poses a threat, listen carefully to the instructions provided by emergency officials.
How to prepare
Have an emergency plan, including sheltering in place and evacuating, and prepare an emergency kit so you can survive on your own for a minimum of 72 hours.
What to do during a spill
We may alert you of spills by:
- Alertable emergency notifications (sign up here)
- Door-to-door (if applicable)
- Police patrol cars or fire vehicle using a public address system
- Media, including radio, TV, internet, and social media
During a spill, be sure to:
- Stay clear of the area affected and routes into the area
- Listen to local media for updates
- If you are evacuating and have time, close windows, shut vents, and turn off fans
What to do after a spill
- Return home only when emergency officials say it is safe
- Open windows and vents, and turn on fans for ventilation
- If you came in to contact with or were exposed to hazardous chemicals:
- Follow decontamination instructions from local authorities
- Seek medical treatment for unusual symptoms as soon as possible
- Place exposed clothing and shoes in tightly sealed containers. Do not allow them to contact other materials
- Advise everyone who comes in to contact with you that you may have been exposed to a toxic substance
- Report any lingering vapours or other hazards to 9-1-1
Learn more about hazardous spills
- PreparedBC: Hazardous Material Spills
- Get Prepared Canada: Chemical releases
- BC Environmental Emergency Program: Report a Spill
How to get involved – CAP (Community Advisory Panel)
The Community Advisory Panel (CAP) provides a forum between the community and industrial partners in Maplewood and surrounding areas. Learn more here.
Chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear attacks
British Columbia’s emergency alert system will be used in the event of a chemical, biological, radiological, or nuclear attack. It is part of a national alert system that will broadcast emergency alerts on television and radio.
Learn more about nuclear attacks
Cyber attacks
A cyber attack occurs when computer systems are sabotaged, with a virus for example.
Cyber attacks may:
- Erase entire systems
- Break into systems and alter files
- Use your computer or device to attack others
- Steal confidential information
How to prepare
Follow the Government of Canada tips to keep you and your family safe from cyber attacks.
What to do if a cyber-attack happens to you
- Immediately change all passwords; financial passwords first.
- Disconnect your computer from the internet and restart in safe mode.
- Contact companies, including banks, where you have accounts, as well as credit card companies.
- Close any accounts that may have been compromised.
- Watch for unexplainable or unauthorized charges to your accounts.
- File a report with the local police.
- Report it to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.
