Stay, Leave or Wait and See: Determinants of Residents’ Evacuation Behaviours and Protective Actions During the 2023 Bush Creek East Wildfire in British Columbia

Wildfires in Canada are increasingly destructive, driven by urban expansion, population growth, and climate change. The steady rise in evacuation orders presents significant challenges for residents and communities. Using an Exploratory Sequential Mixed Methods design, this study identified factors influencing residents’ evacuation behaviours and protective actions during the 2023 Bush Creek East Wildfire in British Columbia. Among 213 participants, evacuation behaviours were shaped by perceived risk, prior experience, personal circumstances, available information, and trust in authorities. The findings call for evacuation policies (and alternatives) that balance public safety with residents' welfare. Future research should explore how demographics, household composition, and residency tenure affect evacuation behaviours across various communities. Policymakers must develop sustainable solutions that embrace local capacities to help mitigate wildfire risks.

Author dc:creator

• Hicik, Alana , L.

Advisor dc:contributor.advisor

• Hertelendy, Attila, J.

• School of humanitarian studies

Language dc:language.iso

en_US

Identifier URI

https://doi.org/10.25316/IR-20409

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:null:10613/28844