Emergency Support Services (ESS) is a provincial emergency response program, administered by the City. ESS provides short-term emergency support (typically 72 hours) for those who are forced to leave their homes due to fire, flood, earthquakes or other emergencies. This assistance includes food, lodging, clothing, and other temporary supports.
In Coquitlam, local ESS planning and response is organized by the Community Services Department and Victim Services Division.
Residents are encouraged to set up their BC Emergency Support Services profile and verify their identity with the BC Services Card app before an emergency occurs. Taking these steps ahead of time can make the ESS process faster and less stressful if support is needed during an emergency. After creating a profile, residents can access the online self-service registration tool, learn what types of assistance may be available, and identify any immediate, short-term needs.
If you have home or tenant insurance, contact your provider to confirm what living expenses are covered during an evacuation. Learn more about why insurance is an important part of emergency preparedness.
Reception Centres
A Reception Centre is a pre-identified facility where ESS services can be provided to the community. The location of these centres will be publicized via the media, as they become available.
If you evacuate your home, it is recommended that you register at a Reception Centre, if one has been activated by the City. This is important even if you plan to stay with friends or relatives and not at one of the locations set up to house evacuees. Registration ensures emergency officials know that you have left the area and are accounted for. Registration also provides the City with your contact information should it be necessary to contact you.
Group Lodging Facilities
A Group Lodging facility is a safe place for those affected by large-scale emergencies to go to sleep and eat. Group lodging is often located in community centres, recreation centres, churches or schools. Group lodging is opened depending on the size of emergency, the availability of commercial lodgings, and the number of responders.