Wednesday, July 16, 2025

Wildfire season is erupting across Canada, and it’s important for travelers to be informed and prepared. Wildfire incidents occur when travelling through beautiful terrain and in cities and these can affect your travel plans, and knowing what to do can mean the difference between an amazing getaway and a holiday disaster.

Wildfires are a normal part of Canada’s ecosystem, but they do pose real risks to travelers, especially in areas of the country that are susceptible to drought and high temperatures. If you’re traveling to Canada, it’s imperative to keep tabs on wildfires and how to protect yourself in the event of an emergency.

While you’re planning your trip, you may want to check the government’s official resources on wildfire safety, which covers current air quality, evacuation plans and other key points. Make sure if you are traveling to areas that are currently affected by wildfires, that include you checking these resources regularly.

Before you even leave, research where you’re going and the wildfire risk there. These parameters, including air quality and fire activity, can also accessed in real time via Government of Canada websites and mobile apps. Those sensitive to poor air quality should take any health considerations into account, and retreat indoors if the air is smoky and unhealthy.

When hiking or in nature, it’s very important to check local weather conditions for any fire warnings. Know the local laws, and avoid building a campfire whenever there’s a high risk of wildfire.

Fires can naturally and rapidly escalate in these conditions and local authorities will keep the public informed on Public Safety Routes on Social Media, Radio and online. If you are in an affected area, follow evacuation orders immediately. It is important to have a prepared vehicle evacuation plan ready for a safe and fast escape.

Make sure to charge your cell phone and have emergency contacts readily available. The government might issue evacuation notices or provide instructions for sheltering in place to protect you from smoke. Keeping an eye on local advice is crucial in an uncertain, ever-shifting hour.

After the immediate confrontation with wildfires has passed, it is also vital to move carefully when revisiting impacted places. The Canadian government will update on the safety of specific regions and whether it is even safe to return to certain locations. Health precautions will also be taken to minimize exposure to smoke or harmful particles that could remain in the air.

Consult air quality monitors, local news reports and official recommendations for guidance on whether it’s safe to continue your travel plans. Of course, if you have respiratory problems or health issues, prioritize safety first and follow sensible precautions.

One of the greatest things to remember is to be flexible when you’re travelling in fire season. Wildfires can lead to flight cancellations, road closures or itinerary changes. So it never hurts to have a Plan B for your journey.

Try to make lodging and tour reservations with flexible cancellation policies. If you are traveling in a group, everyone should be in the know of emergency plans including evacuation routes, close hospitals and the number you can get a hold of your accommodations or guides.

Staying informed, staying flexible in your plans, but you can definitely have a great, very safe trip to Canada even when there’s a fire risk.

As wildfires close in on parts of the world that were once largely free of them or impose a kind of seasonal hostage status on those that have long experienced them, travelers might want to wade into the long-term implications of their itineraries. Stay informed, plan, and be ready to adjust your plans as needed. Follow the instructions of the local authorities and emergency services, as well as monitor local media for the latest information.

When you’re travelling amidst stunning landscapes, vibrant cultures and thriving cities from coast to coast in Canada, keep in mind that you’re doing so without interruption because you understand wildfire risks and know what you need to do to protect yourself and others. Stay safe, stay informed and make the most of everything Canada has to offer, in the interest of your health and safety.

And with those precautions behind you, you will be free and clear to make the most of anything that comes your way and keep on trucking through Canada safe in mind, knowing you’ll be able to manage.