ESS provides short-term temporary services for individuals and families affected by disasters so they can begin to plan their next steps following a disaster.
Basic services may be provided at the scene or on site for small scale events, or at a RC for larger responses, and may include:
- Food
- Clothing
- Lodging
- Family Reunification
- Response/Recovery Information
Additional services may be provided at RCs. The needs of each particular emergency will determine the services to be provided. When necessary, communities should plan to provide the following services:
- Emotional Support
- Volunteer Services
- Child Care
- Pet Services
- Special Needs
- Transportation services
ESS is typically available for 72 hours. During these first 72 hours, evacuees should immediately plan their next steps by contacting their insurance agents, families and friends, or accessing other possible resources. In BC, the Emergency Management BC ESS Office may extend ESS under exceptional circumstances only.
