Emergency Support Services Volunteers

Emergency Support Services is based on volunteerism, and is dependent on the willingness of individuals in the community to help plan for the well-being of their neighbours and fellow citizens in the event of a disaster.

ESS volunteers assist their communities in many ways, including:

• Linkage to first responders agencies
• Informing local businesses of the program
• Identifying potential Reception Centres and Group Lodging sites
• Recruiting and training more volunteers
• Completing contact lists and exercising their plan
• Informing the public of help available following a disaster
• Providing for the essential needs of people affected by a disaster

  Make a difference become an ESS Volunteer

  Making a difference as part of a team that provides assistance and a shoulder to lean on when disaster forces people from their homes.

  Volunteers gain valuable experience and contacts in the field of emergency management.

  Volunteer training is provided free of charge through the Justice Institute of B.C. and support organizations. Training modules include Reception Centre Operations, Family Reunification, Group Lodging and more.

  Volunteers form the backbone of ESS and are recognized by local government as part of a network of emergency responders.

  Volunteer one hour a month for the Logan Lake ESS team and provide on-call assistance when required . This time commitment isn't much, while the rewards are great. To offer your services as an ESS volunteer, please contact the Logan Lake Emergency Program Coordinator.

   

Emergency Preparation for Pets

If you are forced to leave your home it's important to remember to take your pet(s) with you. Leaving pets behind, even if you try to make a safe place for them, is not the best option. Unfortunately most emergency shelters can't accept pets, except for service animals such as dogs for the visually impaired, so you must plan ahead.

Start with relatives or friends outside your area, boarding kennels and vet clinics who could shelter your animals during an emergency. Some motels and campgrounds allow pets too.

Once you have compiled a list remember to put a copy in your "Grab and Go" bag. While you're at it include pet supplies (leash, portable kennel, food, and water).

If you have advance warning of a possible disaster or severe storm, keep your pets inside with you so you won't have to look for them if you are forced to leave your home.

Make sure your pets are wearing collars and identification tags.

Preparations such as packing a "Grab & Go" bag can make a big difference in the event of a disaster. If you are on a prescription don't forget your medication.

Emergency Grab and Go Kit

Preparations such as packing a "Grab & Go" bag can make a big difference in the event of a disaster. Key points about the "Grab & Go" bag:

• Most of the items that go into the bag won't need to be purchased; look around your home for items that you already own (i.e.: clothing, shoes, first aid kit).
• Pack healthy foods with a long shelf life.
• Remember to pack supplies for your pets.
• Consider including a few personal photos.
• Identify a person who is willing and able to act as your family's out-of-area contact person. Seek his or her support in the family's reunion planning process. The person should have an answering machine to record calls when away and should routinely check for messages.
• Keep your out-of-area contact card in your wallet, "Grab & Go" bag or other readily accessible location.
• Pack lightly as each person will have to carry his or her own bag.
• Decide on a system to remind yourself when it is time to replace items that may expire; for example, twice per year when your change your clocks for daylight savings time.

  Here are some suggested supplies:

• Flat, comfortable shoes
• Small first aid kit and manual
• Toilet tissue
• Fire extinguisher (A-B-C)
• Flashlight and batteries
• AM/FM radio and batteries
• Heavy gloves
• Cash and coins
• Warm, protective clothing
• Food and water
• Medication if required
• Blanket
• Whistle
• Flares (for the car)
• Small tool kit (for the car)
• Local maps (for the car)