Tips to Prepare for a Landslide - Province of British Columbia
Landslides are the down-slope movement of rock or debris. As more homes are built onto steep slopes, landslides become a greater hazard for both people and buildings.
It’s important to take time to prepare and understand what to do before, during and after a major landslide.
Get prepared
The best way to prepare for a landslide is to be aware of changes that could signal one. To report suspected landslide indicators, call the 24-hour provincial toll-free number at 1-800-663-3456, contact 9-1-1 or call your local fire, police or public works department.
Landslide or debris flow indicators may include:
Sudden changes in stream flow
Rapid changes or pulses in stream flow (e.g. changes in volume) or pulses of sediment (e.g. changes from clear to murky water)
Abnormally dirty water
Accumulation of large logs or debris
Rapid accumulation of sediment or bed-load along a flat section of a creek channel
Tension cracks near the top of a slope
Falling rocks or boulders or flowing or sliding soil. This may precede a much larger landslide
Stay safe
Leave the area immediately if you observe the following:
A faint rumbling sound that increases in volume
Unusual sounds, such as trees cracking or boulders knocking together
If you are caught in a landslide with no option to evacuate, curl in a tight ball and protect your head and neck
Landslide information guide
Prepare your household, protect your property and know what to do if a landslide occurs.
For more information or inquiries about this guide, please contact us at PreparedBC@gov.bc.ca.
