New Westminster residents are getting a helping hand in preparing for emergency situations.
The City of New Westminster has proclaimed May 5 to 11 as Emergency Preparedness Week.
"Know the hazards, make a plan, get a kit," said Dave Jones, coordinator of the city's emergency program office.
During Emergency Preparedness Week, the city is offering two free sessions on personal preparedness to help residents be prepared for emergencies.
The city's emergency management office, and fire and police services are offering free emergency preparedness workshops on May 6 and 8, from 6: 30 to 8: 30 p.m.
The seminars will provide an overview of emergency preparedness, help people develop a family emergency plan, explain the role of the fire and police departments, and show how people can create a family emergency kit so they can be self-sufficient for at least 72 hours if an emergency strikes.
Jones stressed the importance of residents and businesses taking action to be prepared for any emergency.
"Personal preparedness is what you need to do," he said. "The government can't do everything. People have a responsibility to be prepared."
In addition to an emergency kit, Jones said people should have a family reunification and communication plan, and should have up-to-date insurance and a will.
"Being prepared is knowing the risks and hazards in your community," he added. "There are 57 identified hazards in B.C."
According to Jones, risks could include being located in an area with seismic activity, on a river that experiences spring freshet, on a rail line that transports hazardous materials or being in an area that experiences severe weather storms.
"We always offer free classes," Jones said. "We have it on the city's website so people can sign up for those things."
For the past 26 weeks, the city has been providing weekly tips through social media on becoming prepared during an emergency.
The emergency preparedness workshops are free, but space is limited to 40 persons per session. To register, call the emergency management office at 604-5153794 or email [email protected].
For more information on emergency preparedness, visit the city's website at www.newwest city.ca and click on the Public Safety link.
