Most people believe disasters won't happen to them, but in the event of an emergency, residents can't always rely on government and first responders such as police, firefighters, paramedics and personnel with the Provincial Emergency Program.
This week, May 2 to 8, is Emergency Preparedness Week - a chance to help promote the importance of emergency preparedness.
The Sunshine Coast's emergency program co-ordinator Bill Elsner is encouraging everyone to prepare for the worst, be it an earthquake, flood or major forest fire. Take some time this week to ask yourself these questions: in the event of a disaster, what would you do? Do you have a place to meet family members if separated? Have you identified an out-of-province phone number your family can call to say they're OK? Do you have a kit that will help you survive on your own for at least 72 hours? Do you have the basics on hand if there is no power or water? Do you have a battery-powered radio to find out the extent of the disaster and other news that will help you survive? Do you have food and supplies for your pets?
In a major emergency, first responders will have to focus on those in urgent need first, and because we're so isolated here on the Sunshine Coast and our communities are so spread out, help from the Lower Mainland could be days away. That means we all have to be prepared with enough resources to survive on our own for at least 72 hours.
Three simple steps can help prepare for all types of emergencies: know the risks in this region; have an emergency kit; and know and practise your emergency plan. If you want more tips, check out the Sunshine Coast Regional District (SCRD) website at www.scrd.ca, or better yet, email Elsner at [email protected]. He'd be glad to help you out.
We all like believing the big one will never happen, but history tells us something different. Mother Nature will strike one day, and the Sunshine Coast will be hit with a major earthquake, flood or wild fire. When that day comes and disaster strikes, do yourself a favour - be well-supplied and have plans in place to best meet any crisis.
It's just the smart thing to do.
Recycling 101
In today's edition, we present part one of a four-part series on recycling and waste reduction. We hope this series will provide our readers with some valuable insight into the plans for the Coast - what's working and what's not - as well as ask questions and provoke thought for solutions between residents and government as we strive to be a zero-waste community.
