From Campsites to Cabins: 3 Emergency Prep Tips for Families on Summer Getaways

Summer is the perfect time to pack up the car, grab the kids, and head off on a family adventure—whether it’s a rustic campsite, cozy cabin, or a lakefront rental. But while these getaways are all about fun, they can also bring unexpected surprises. Think power outages, wildfires, sudden storms, earthquakes or even medical emergencies far from home.

As a disaster preparedness trainer—and a mom who’s navigated a few bumpy vacations—I know firsthand how just a little planning can keep your family safe and your trip on track. Here are three simple ways to be ready for anything while making the most of your summer escape.

1. Know the Local Risks Before You Go

It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of planning hikes, beach days, or s’mores by the fire (if they are allowed) —but have you checked what disasters are most common where you’re headed?

• Wildfires, especially in dry, forested areas

• Floods and flash flooding near rivers or in low-lying zones

• Windstorms in open, rural or mountain regions

• Earthquakes, typically on the West Coast - but not necessarily

• Boil water advisories in remote cabins or campgrounds

Before you go:

• Look up the local emergency alert system - BC Wildfire / Alertable / Voyent Alert are a few apps to check in BC

• Add the local non-emergency number to your phone

• Find out where the closest hospital, fire station, and grocery store are located

Mom Tested Tip: Even if your destination feels “off the grid,” you can still be informed. Take screenshots of maps and emergency contacts in case there’s no signal.

2. Pack a Family-Friendly Travel Emergency Kit

Whether you're camping or cabin-ing, don’t rely on your destination to be equipped for emergencies. A compact emergency kit can make a world of difference.

What to include:

• Flashlight + extra batteries or solar-powered light

• First-aid kit with kids’ meds (think bug bites, fever, scrapes)

• Reusable water bottles + a few water purification tablets

• Non-perishable snacks (granola bars, fruit leather, trail mix)

• Printout of emergency contacts and insurance info

• A few kid-calming extras: a favourite stuffy, a mini game, or a notebook

If you’re camping, also pack:

• Fire extinguisher or fire blanket

• Waterproof matches and a whistle

• Emergency blanket (can double as ground cover)

Mom Tested Tip: Assign your kids a “junior helper” role. Let them pack their own flashlight or mini first-aid pouch—it makes them feel involved and more confident in emergencies.

3. Plan for the “What Ifs” — Together

When we think about emergency planning, it’s easy to skip it on vacation because… well, we’re on vacation! But disasters don't take holidays. Even a quick 5-minute family conversation can make a huge difference.

Here’s what to talk about:

• What to do if you get separated on a hike or at a festival

• Where to meet up if you have to leave suddenly (and how to recognize staff or authorities)

• Who can your child call if something happens and you’re unavailable

• How to spot signs of heat exhaustion or allergic reaction

Mom Tested Tip: Keep it light and age-appropriate. Say, “We’re just going to talk about a few ways we can all help keep each other safe this weekend.”

Bonus: If your kids are old enough, have them help create the emergency plan—it becomes a game instead of a lecture.

Wrap-Up:
Summer adventures are all about making memories, not worrying. With a little prep, you can give your family peace of mind and create the space to enjoy everything from roasting marshmallows to exploring a new trail. Being ready doesn't take much—it just takes doing it.

You’ve got this. Whether you're camping in the woods or relaxing lakeside, your family deserves to be safe, prepared, and stress-free.

About Jackie Kloosterboer

With over 30 years of frontline experience in emergency preparedness and disaster response, I’ve helped thousands of families, communities, and organizations prepare for the unexpected—and recover when it strikes. From wildfires and floods to large-scale evacuations, I know firsthand what works when every second counts.

I’ve led emergency response efforts with the City of Vancouver, partnered with First Nations communities across B.C., and taught future responders through the Justice Institute of British Columbia. I’m also the founder of Mom’s Ultimate Disaster Plan —an online course designed to help busy families feel confident, informed, and ready to take action when it matters most.

My mission is simple: to make sure your family is ready before the disaster strikes!