Columbia Valley Pioneer staff
If residents want to be prepared for the wrath that Mother Nature might bestow the Columbia Valley this year, they should mark May 10 on their calendars.
That’s when the Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) will host its Emergency Preparedness Fair in the back parking lot at Eddie Mountain Memorial Arena from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
National Emergency Preparedness Week kicks off on May 4 and the RDEK is urging residents to keep that in mind as the valley heads into flood and wildfire season.
This year’s theme is “In it Together.”
“It’s important for people to know which risks we face in this area and what they can do to help not only their family prepare, but their neighbours as well,” said RDEK Protective Services Manager Christina Carbrey.
“It’s important to discuss with those around you the risks that exist and identify those people in your circle who may need extra support,” she added.
The fair will help residents learn which services are available and how they can formulate the necessary emergency plans for their households.
Fair attendees will include: East Kootenay Emergency Management Program, East Kootenay FireSmart Program, Columbia Valley Rural Fire and Rescue Service, Columbia Valley Search and Rescue, FireSmart Invermere, East Kootenay Amateur Radio Club, First Nations Health Authority, Invermere Fire Rescue, Columbia Valley RCMP, Health Emergency Management BC/Interior Health, United Way BC, the Salvation Army, and the Canadian Red Cross.
Many of these services will have emergency response apparatus on display. There will also be games for children, prizes to be won, and invaluable information about keeping your family safe.
Staff will be on hand to help people sign up for the Regional Evacuation Notification System —Voyent Alert! The annual system test is scheduled for Friday, May 9 at 2 p.m.
