My area has been evacuated – where do I go?
A reception centre has been set up at Morinville Leisure Centre (25126 Secondary Highway 642, AB) for evacuated residents.
A general information line has been set up for residents at 587-200-3068.
What’s the difference between an evacuation alert and an evacuation order?
An evacuation alert is an advanced warning to allow people to prepare to be evacuated and can be up to several days in advance of an evacuation order. An evacuation order is issued when emergency services has determined it is necessary to move people out of a dangerous area.
How do I find out if there is an evacuation order?
Updates will be posted on the Sturgeon County website (SturgeonCounty.ca) and on Sturgeon County social media channels. Alerts will also be sent out on the Alberta Emergency Alert app and website. Evacuation orders will be issued door-to-door by emergency services in impacted areas.
How much time is typically given in an evacuation notice?
As much notice as possible will be given, dependent on the nature of the emergency. That said, because fire behaviour can change very rapidly, residents need to be prepared to evacuate on short notice.
Once the notice is given, residents will have up to one hour to evacuate.
Do I have to leave if I receive an evacuation order?
It is highly recommended. Emergency services will not send response personnel back into an area that individuals refused to evacuate until safe to do so.
Evacuation Orders
If my area is evacuated, where do I go?
All evacuees must register in person at the reception centre: Morinville Leisure Centre, 25126 Secondary Highway 642, AB.
What do I do if I’m evacuated?
In the event of an evacuation order, residents are encouraged to consider the following:
- Leave the area immediately. Leaving promptly helps emergency crews keep the roads clear of congestion and gives them room to do their job. Evacuation orders are issued when you must leave the area for your own safety.
- Grab your emergency kit and take it with you.
- Gather important documents, medication, food, fresh water and other supplies to be away from home for 72 hours (emergency kit checklist).
- Follow instructions on where to go. Follow evacuation routes specified by emergency workers. Do not take shortcuts.
- Drive carefully with your headlights on. Make way for pedestrians and emergency vehicles.
- Follow us on Facebook and/or X for news and updates.
If my area is being evacuated and I’m not home, can I go home to pick things up?
No, residents and the public are not permitted into the affected area at this time.
If my children are at school and I receive an evacuation order, can I go get them?
The school board has comprehensive emergency plans. Parents will be notified and the school will release children based on their procedures to ensure all children are accounted for and safe.
My area is being evacuated, my pets are at home unattended and I’m at work. Can I go get them?
No, residents and the public are not permitted into the affected area at this time.
My area is being evacuated, what do I do with my livestock?
The following locations are open to receiving livestock (cattle and horses, possibly bison). Please call the contact numbers first to reserve space:
- Sturgeon Agriplex | Kurtis Fleet (Board member of Agriplex): 780-668-6525
- Lonesome Pine Cattle | Len Hrehorets: 780-991-6737
- North Central Livestock Exchange Ltd. | Levi: (780) 348-5893
I don’t have a vehicle. How do I evacuate with my belongings?
Notify emergency personnel and they will assist in the person’s evacuation.
My neighbour is elderly or disabled. How will they be assisted?
Notify emergency personnel and they will assist in the person’s evacuation.
How do I protect my home if I’ve been evacuated?
If an area is evacuated, the area will be secured and residents/visitors will not be allowed access to the evacuated area. Homeowners should lock up before evacuating.
Will I be able to take my pet to the reception centre with me?
Residents are urged to make arrangements for pets as they cannot be housed at the reception centre.
Will my home insurance cover accommodation and food charges if I’m evacuated?
It will depend on your policy coverage. Check with your provider to get more information. It’s wise to check as a step in creating your family’s emergency planning, so you understand your coverage and there are no surprises.
How long will an evacuation last?
It will depend on the nature of the emergency. No one will be allowed to return to their homes until it is safe to do so.
How will I find out when I can go home?
If you registered with the reception centre, emergency response staff will contact you. All updated emergency status information will be shared on the Sturgeon County website and on Sturgeon County social media channels.