Emergency preparedness programs across BC are getting a cash infusion from the provincial government.
Roughly $880,000 will be distributed through the Community Emergency Preparedness Fund to update emergency alerting and evacuation plans.
On Vancouver Island, the Comox Valley Regional District will receive $150,000 for evacuation and public notification planning in partnership with K’ómoks First Nation, Cumberland, and Courtenay.
CVRD Chair Jesse Ketler says that the funds will be used to fill gaps in regional LiDAR that will inform climate change adaptation strategies.
According to Acting Mayor Will Cole-Hamilton, the funds will also help proactively plan evacuation routes and “develop processes for effective messaging to the public within our region.”
Mayor of Cumberland Vickey Brown says they are eager to participate in the project.
“These funds will help ensure British Columbians can leave the area safely when a disaster hits, and will improve emergency notification, alerts, and communication to people during emergencies,” says Minister of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness Bowinn Ma.
