Saanich, BC – The Great British Columbia ShakeOut is only a few weeks away. As we lead up to this province-wide earthquake drill, Saanich is reminding residents to plan, prepare and participate.

As part of the ShakeOut drill on October 20, 2016, Saanich staff will practice ‘drop cover and hold on’ along with over 1 million other British Columbians at 10:20 a.m. Whether at home or at work – residents are encouraged to be prepared, have a plan and make a kit.

“ShakeOut provides a great opportunity for Saanich residents to practice taking protective measures in an earthquake as well as update their household emergency plan and kit,” said Frank Macdonald, Deputy Fire Chief. “Whether it’s an earthquake, tsunami or other emergency event, having a plan and kit in place and being prepared improves one’s ability to stay safe and recover from an emergency quicker.”

During ShakeOut, through a Fire Department Operations Centre exercise, Saanich will also showcase its emergency notification page on the recently revamped website Saanich.ca. When enabled, residents who visit the site will be instantly alerted to important information about a significant emergency when accessing any Saanich web page.

“Saanich’s website, along with social media, are key communication channels during emergency situations,” said Macdonald. “We encourage residents to check out our emergency notification page demonstration on www.saanich.ca as part of ShakeOut on October 20.”

Learn More:

• For more information about ShakeOut BC, please visit: shakeoutbc.ca
• To view the emergency notification page during ShakeOut BC, please visit: saanich.ca
• To learn more about emergency preparedness, educational courses or volunteering with the Saanich Emergency Program, please contact 250-475-7140.

Social Media Channels:

• Follow Saanich Fire on Twitter: @SaanichFire
• Follow Saanich Emergency Program on Twitter: @SaanichEP

 

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Media Contact:
Frank Macdonald, Deputy Fire Chief
Saanich Fire Department
250-475-5503