VICTORIA - This weekend's windstorm that ripped through the Lower
Mainland and Vancouver Island knocking over trees, power lines and
leaving people in the dark for a number of days is a reminder for all
British Columbians to make sure they and their families are prepared
for any emergency.
"The recent wind storm serves as a reminder to British Columbians that
emergency preparedness is a shared responsibility that starts in each
of our homes," said Minister of State for Emergency Preparedness, Naomi
Yamamoto. "We all need to have supplies on hand, like food and water,
first aid kits and flashlights, so that our homes are ready for any
potential emergency, large or small."
Yamamoto joined BC Hydro officials yesterday in a tour of impacted
areas and the utility company's Emergency Operations Centre, commending
work crews on their tireless, around-the clock effort to restore power
to affected communities. The minister committed to exploring with
partners, including local authorities and BC Hydro, lessons learned to
help better prepare and respond to emergencies.
Emergency officials are using the recent windstorm to remind residents
to prepare for more severe weather incidents, as well as make it a
catalyst for preparing for catastrophic impacts should a large
earthquake strike the coast. All British Columbians should have an
emergency plan that outlines evacuation and family reunification
measures, and an emergency kit to help sustain family and pets for a
minimum of 72 hours.
