With climate emergencies happening more frequently, the Province of British Columbia is funding local projects to better equip local governments and First Nations to respond to disasters.
鈥淟ocal emergency operations centres (EOC) are crucial in co-ordinating response efforts and safeguarding communities during emergencies,鈥� said Kelly Greene, Minister of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness. 鈥淭hat鈥檚 why we鈥檙e providing communities with tools and training for staff and volunteers at emergency operations centres. These supports will allow local governments and First Nations throughout B.C. to better respond to emergencies.鈥�
The following communities in northwest B.C. received funding:
Bulkley-Nechako Regional District 鈥� $36,863 for facilitating EOC exercises and evacuation workshops to rehearse response co-ordination and safe evacuation procedures.
Gitga鈥檃t First Nation 鈥� $40,000 to provide training and supplies IT and communications equipment.
Haisla Nation 鈥� $39,755 to provide IT equipment, electrical upgrades for sea can storage radios and tabletop exercises.
Houston 鈥� $40,000 to provide EOC training through the emergency-management program.
Iskut First Nation 鈥� $40,000 to provide IT and communications equipment, including a drone for communications and supplies a backup generator for reliable power and situational awareness.
Kitimat 鈥� $21,549 for communication equipment and training enhancements.
Kitselas First Nation 鈥� $40,000 to provide training and exercises and supplies IT, communications and operational equipment.
Port Edward 鈥� $40,000 to provide emergency support services training and supplies office, IT and communications equipment.
Smithers 鈥� $39,900 to provide joint training operations and communications equipment.
Telkwa 鈥� $39,994 to provide EOC training, IT equipment, communications equipment and office supplies.
The Community Emergency Preparedness Fund helps communities better prepare for the impacts of climate-related emergencies by funding local projects and initiatives. This fund is administered through the Union of BC Municipalities.
