Port Coquitlam will ramp up its emergency preparedness efforts this year with the help of a provincial grant, according to a press release.
The city has received about $26,000 in Community Emergency Preparedness funding from the Union of British Columbia Municipalities (UBCM).
The money will go to the city's Emergency Support Services (ESS) program, which provides support to evacuees during disasters and major emergencies.
The grant will help fund technology for improved evacuee management, new storage for supplies and equipment, high-visibility and cold-weather apparel and resources for ESS volunteer training, as well as recruitment that is now under way.
What does the ESS do?
ESS is part of the city's Emergency Preparedness Program to prepare for major emergencies through planning, equipment stockpiling, training and community education.
Among the activities ESS will do includes setting up reception centres and supporting residents with food, clothing, lodging and other resources.
Volunteers are needed
Port Coquitlam is recruiting seven to 10 more ESS volunteers this spring
Opportunities include:
- roles in community education
- ESS documentation
- emergency communications (inclusive of amateur radio)
- equipment and supplies, and pet services
It's critically important to be prepared for an emergency, stated Mayor Brad West in a press release.
“We’re always thankful to receive financial support for critical services like emergency preparedness,” West said.
“As we see from events in B.C. and around the globe, a major emergency can happen at any time, without warning. This new funding will allow us to improve how we can support our community and its residents at a time when they are at their most vulnerable. It’s a complement to our ongoing emergency preparedness efforts to ensure the safety and resilience of the city and community.”
Find out more and apply at portcoquitlam.ca/epvolunteers or contact [email protected].
