The City of Parksville is the local authority responsible for responding to disasters within the municipality. In the event of a disaster, i.e. flooding, earthquake, chemical spill, major fire, etc. the City will coordinate the response.

Learn now how you and others can prepare to deal with the aftermath of a disaster. After a disaster (fire, earthquake, toxic spill, etc.) you should be prepared to look after yourself for a minimum of 72 hours until services or supplies are restored.

Temporarily you may have to leave your home and go to a reception center for help with food, clothing or lodging.

Through Emergency Social Services Parksville volunteers can train to work in disaster response, support and recovery programs. There are a number of training and information programs that are available to the community. If you, your neighbours, Community organization or agency would like to learn more or get involved contact Emergency Social Services Parksville at 250 954-3411.

What You Can Do:

A basic level of preparedness is always a good idea for everyone in the community. Other than the technology aspect, the preparedness for the turning of the millennium (Y2K) should be no different than being prepared for any other emergency/disaster. The only difference between Y2K and floods, earthquakes, winter storms, long term power outages and hazardous waste is that we know when it will be occurring.

With some advance preparedness the potential disruptions that an emergency may create can be mitigated. As a precautionary measure residents can prepare now for emergencies. The City of Parksville Emergency Preparedness Group advises you to be self-sufficient for a minimum of three days (72 hours) in case of any potential emergency. Some quick tips:

Put aside a one week supply of all medications
Have spare drinking water on hand (minimum of 2 litres per person per day)
Have spare food on hand
Have spare pet food on hand (if pet owner)
Have flashlight(s) and batteries set aside
Be aware of any special needs that your neighbours may have
Maintain your vehicle's gas tank at least 1/4 full.

For a more detailed check list check out http://www.pep.bc.ca/index.html and click on "Hazard Preparedness".

Family Preparedness for Earthquakes and other Emergencies

Family Meetings and Drills

Important Telephone Numbers
Make a list of key telephone numbers and addresses. Make sure every family member knows where the list is kept.

Emergency Food and Water Pack
Every family should have an emergency supply of food and water on hand sufficient for at least three days. Also consider the possibility of having to feed friends and relatives should they be evacuated from their homes. A week's supply of drinking water for each member of your family is approx. 31.5L (4 gal.) per person. This includes water for drinking, cooking and washing.

Before an Earthquake

Move or secure objects that could fall on you.
Remove or isolate flammable materials.
Make sure the hot water tank is secured so it will not tip over and break natural gas or electrical lines.
Make sure you/other family members know how and where to turn off your utilities.
Have handy a battery-powered radio, flashlight and spare batteries for both.
Keep on hand an emergency survival kit containing food, sleeping bags, medication, first-aid supplies and bottled water. Rotate food and water to ensure freshness.
Plan ahead and hold occasional home earthquake drill.
Check with your children's school to make sure the school has an earthquake emergency plan.
Make sure you know the location of emergency exits, fire alarms and fire extinguishers.
Stay away from windows.
In an apartment, office or mobile home, remain there for the duration of the earthquake. Do not use elevators during or after.
Move away from top-heavy furnishings and things that could fall.
Move under a desk, table or other heavy furniture and hold on to it.
Flatten yourself against a wall in the interior of your home and protect your head as best you can.
If you are outdoors, move to an open area away from buildings, power poles and brick or block walls.
if in an automobile, stop and remain in your car until the shaking stops. Avoid stopping near trees, power lines and on or under overpasses.
If you are in a store, take cover. Choose your exit carefully.

After an Earthquake

Don't use the telephone - Emergency Crews need all available lines.
Be ready for more shaking - aftershocks.
Wear protective shoes and clothing.
Check for fires and fire hazards and house, roof and chimney for damage.
Turn off your electrical system at the main circuit breaker or fuse box.
Check for leaks - turn off main gas valve. Do not turn lights on or off or light matches - carefully leave the house - do not turn off gas unless an emergency exists.
Do not touch downed power lines or objects touching downed lines.
Help locate and treat anyone who may be injured.
Evacuate your building if damage appears serious.
Go to your children's school or pre-determined school collection point and collect your children.

Be prepared to evacuate. If you must, post a message in plain view indicating where you can be found. Take essential supplies with you.

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