This message is from the local Emergency Preparedness Task Force:
Dear Cadboro Bay Resident:
We would also like to take this opportunity to familiarize you with our local Emergency Preparedness Task Force (EPTF). It is expected that following a catastrophic earthquake, where Saanich has publicly declared an emergency, the municipal and provincial authorities (including fire, medical and police departments) will be overwhelmed and residents of Cadboro Bay will more or less be “on their own” for a period of time. The EPTF was created to establish a plan for a limited local emergency response following such a declared emergency. Note that the EPTF will not activate for less severe events where it is expected that the municipal response will be adequate.
The EPTF is modeled on the Incident Command System (ICS) which is the international standard for conducting emergency responses. We currently have 4 local resident volunteers who have kindly accepted responsibility for leadership roles in various capacities under the ICS, including Incident Command, Radio Communications, Temporary Shelter and Care Giving, First Aid, Convergent Volunteer Program, and Search & Rescue. Arrangements have been made for the EPTF to set up at St. George’s Church in a declared emergency. If St. George’s is not structurally sound following an earthquake, there are several back up locations. Emergency supplies, including radios, first aid and search & rescue gear have been stockpiled in a kiosk for use by the EPTF.
A key component of the EPTF plan is the Convergent Volunteer Program. The central premise of the program is that people who are reluctant to participate in pre-emergency preparedness exercises will be willing to volunteer their assistance in an actual declared emergency. The EPTF has worked to develop a system and procedures aimed at quickly and effectively getting Convergent Volunteers actively engaged in the local emergency response in a manner that matches the volunteer’s skills and abilities to the immediate needs of the emergency response.
Another role of the EPTF is to encourage residents of Cadboro Bay to take steps (if they have not already) to prepare for a catastrophic earthquake so that following such an event, they will be self sufficient for a minimum of 72 to 96 hours. It is strongly recommended that all residents go on-line to http://www.saanich.ca and select ‘Community’ and then ‘Emergency Program’ to access a comprehensive overview on emergency preparedness – and then take the appropriate steps to properly prepare for an earthquake.
If you are interested in learning more about the EPTF or possibly taking a volunteer position on the EPTF we invite you to attend an informal gathering to be held at Goward House (2495 Arbutus Road) on Wednesday May 3rd from 7 PM to 8 PM where EPTF volunteers will be in attendance to provide more information and answer your questions.
Thanks and regards, EPTF, Executive
If you are interested, please RSVP to: kevin.pirie@shaw.ca
