Maple Ridge Residents Encouraged to Pre-Register for Emergency Support Services

Get Faster Help and Financial Support by Signing Up With BC Services Card App

Maple Ridge, B.C., Nov. 3, 2025 – The City of Maple Ridge is encouraging residents, especially those living in areas at risk of flooding or wildfires, and those without home or renters’ insurance, to pre-register now for Emergency Support Services (ESS) using the BC Services Card App.

By setting up a profile in advance through the Evacuee Registration and Assistance (ERA) system, residents can ensure that if evacuation is required, they can quickly access essential supports such as accommodation, food, and financial assistance, including direct e-Transfers to their bank accounts.

“Taking a few minutes to prepare now can make all the difference when an emergency strikes,” said Edd Bennett, the City’s Emergency Program Manager. “Pre-registering for ESS gives families peace of mind knowing help will come faster when they need it most. It speeds up financial support, reduces the stress of evacuation, and helps emergency teams focus on keeping everyone safe.”

Why Pre-Register?

Creating your ESS profile today makes it easier and faster to receive support during an evacuation. Benefits include:

  • Immediate financial support via e-Transfer for basic needs such as food and accommodation.
  • Faster check-in at reception centres or when registering online.
  • Reduced delays in accessing shelter, food, and medical support.
  • More efficient emergency response, Allowed City to manage resources and assist more people quickly.

Pre-registration also helps emergency teams better prepare for large-scale events such as apartment fires or community-wide evacuations, ensuring resources are ready when and where they’re needed.

How to Pre-Register

Residents can create a profile for ESS using their BC Services Card App by following these steps:

  1. Visit ess.gov.bc.ca
  2. Click “Create Profile”
  3. Follow the BC Services Card login and registration instructions
  4. In an emergency, follow all official evacuation instructions and orders

For detailed guidance, visit era-evacuees.embc.gov.bc.ca/registration-method. If you need help registering, call the BC Evacuee Helpline at 1-800-387-4258.

About the ERA Tool

The Evacuee Registration & Assistance (ERA) tool is a secure, digital platform used across British Columbia to deliver Emergency Support Services. It allows evacuees to access essential supports online, by phone, or in person. Through ERA, those registered with the BC Services Card App can receive financial assistance directly to their bank accounts via Interac e-Transfer.

Be Prepared for Emergencies of All Kinds

  • Know the Risks – View flood maps and local hazard information at MapleRidge.ca/Flood
  • Make a Plan – Create a family emergency plan, including arrangements for pets
  • Gather Supplies – Have enough food, water, and essentials to last 72 hours to one week

Stay Informed and Ready

For more information on emergency readiness, contact EmergencyProgram@MapleRidge.ca.

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Media Contact

Pardeep Purewal, Senior Manager Corporate Communications and Public Engagement
T 604 466 4319 C 778 955 4249
E media@mapleridge.ca