Getting prepared for an emergency and learning how to cope during a disaster is now easier in Port Coquitlam
The emergency preparedness courses, which were previously taught in a series of sessions, can now be completed in a single Saturday afternoon class.
Four different topics are discussed, including personal preparedness, rapid damage assessment, basic fire suppression and light urban search and rescue. Registration is currently being accepted for the 2012 program.
In a disaster situation, like a severe storm, flood or earthquake, the city said residents should be able to survive on their own for at least three days.
The more residents can take care of themselves after an emergency, the more the city's resources can be directed to restoring services.
A person interested in take the course must be at least 16 years of age and early registration is recommended, with priority going to Port Coquitlam residents.
The courses are held on March 3, May 27, Sept. 22 and Nov 24 on Saturdays between 9 a.m. to the early afternoon at No. 1 Fire Hall (1725 Broadway St., PoCo). Light refreshments will be provided.
For more information about the course or tips on how to be more prepared in an emergency go to www.portcoquitlam.ca/ep. To register call 604-927-5466.
THE SESSIONS
Personal Preparedness: Help yourself, your family and your co-workers in those first 72 hours and beyond.
Basic Fire Suppression: Learn basic fire chemistry and classes of fire, how to use a fire extinguisher and basic steps for fire response and intervention in the event of water, gas and electrical problems.
Rapid Damage Assessment: Identify unsafe conditions in a single-family dwelling to help determine if the home is safe to occupy after an earthquake.
Light Urban Search and Rescue: Learn what to do if someone is trapped in a home during a disaster.
