KIMBERLEY, BC - The City is encouraging residents to think about emergency preparedness this week. It is important to be ready for any emergency, but part of being prepared includes knowing what types of disasters can happen in your area. In Kimberley, our geographical location and some of the unique features of our community play a role on what we need to be prepared for including flood, wildfire, or extreme weather.
During this past year’s budgetary process, Council agreed to create an “Extreme Weather Reserve” funded from savings in the snow removal budget each year. The fund had a healthy $40,438 transferred to it using monies that weren’t spent in the 2014/15 snow season. The reserve will top out at $100,000 with funds being utilized when the community experiences unplanned costs due to extreme weather. “History tells us that it is not ‘if’ but rather ‘when’ we will need to respond to an emergency.
Having funds available to respond to the community need, just makes good sense,“ said Mayor Don McCormick when asked about the reserve.
Another part of being prepared is having an emergency kit prepared ahead of time. If an emergency happens in our community, it may take emergency workers some time to reach people. Be prepared to take care of yourself and your family for a minimum of 72 hours. This is especially important for those that have special needs. It is a good idea to establish a network of neighbours, friends and family who can help you during an emergency or evacuation. “There are some great resources online to assist with residents looking to prepare their own kits at home, such as www.getprepared.bc.ca, “ says Kimberley Fire Chief, Al Collinson.
Emergency Preparedness Week is May 3rd to 9th this year; it is an annual event that takes place each year during the first full week of May. This national event is coordinated by Public Safety Canada, in close collaboration with the provinces and territories and partners. More information is available by visiting the City’s web site at www.kimberley.ca