Emergency Support Services

When an emergency or disaster strikes, our local Emergency Support Services (ESS) team members are there to help. Our regional ESS team is made up of local, compassionate volunteers, who want to make a difference when their friends and neighbours need it most.

New volunteers from all of the municipalities, rural areas and First Nations in the region are always welcome. If you want to help in your community and are a compassionate, team-oriented individual, we'd love to hear from you.

ESS in East Kootenays

In East Kootenays there are three ESS teams:

• Central ESS Team
• Columbia Valley ESS Team
• Elk Valley ESS Team

Depending on the community you live in, you will join your local ESS team as an ESS volunteer.

What can you expect as an ESS Volunteer?

• You will work with your team and community partners to register evacuees and provide access to services such as shelter, food, and clothing.
• You will also help provide emotional care and comfort within an emergency shelter, community reception centre, community recovery centre or through outreach activities in the community. 
• You are willing to help within your community and you may be available to help in other communities periodically throughout the year.

How To Apply

To apply to be an ESS volunteer, please visit www.rdek.bc.ca/ess and click on "Fill in an application". If you have any questions or need assistance completing the application, please email [hidden] or call [hidden].