Emergency Preparedness Fair Planned for the Columbia Valley

National Emergency Preparedness Week kicks off on May 4th and the East Kootenay Emergency Management Program will be holding an Emergency Preparedness Fair in Invermere to wrap things up on May 10th.

“The theme of Emergency Preparedness Week this year is “In it Together” and knowing which emergency services exist and operate in your area is a big part of the community building process,” says RDEK Protective Services Manager, Christina Carbrey. “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. 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. This fair will help residents learn which services are available to help and how they can start to formulate those necessary emergency plans for their households.”

The fair will be held in the back parking lot of Eddie Mountain Memorial Arena (502 13th St, Invermere) on May 10th from 11 AM – 3 PM. The services in attendance include the 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 the services will have their emergency response apparatus on display, there will be games for the kids, prizes to be won, and invaluable information about keeping your family safe. All are welcome to attend. RDEK staff will also be on hand to help people sign up for the Regional Evacuation Notification System, Voyent Alert! ahead of the annual system test on Friday, May 9th at 2:00 PM.  

In addition, the RDEK will be sharing emergency-related information throughout the week to help raise awareness about the importance of Emergency Preparedness and how we can all work together to create community resilience. Find Emergency Preparedness information at www.rdek.bc.ca.

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