With climate change, concerns about earthquakes, wildfires, and flooding, we thought it would be prudent to have an event that was solution focused and brought positive and proactive ways to prepare ourselves and surrounding neighbourhood.
As we are in a very rural location and homes and properties can have large distances between, it took a little more effort to connect and get the word out for this event. We posted our event on mailboxes, hand delivered invitations to homes, and posted on a local Facebook page. We also emailed neighbours we knew and asked them to spread the word.
Holding an event for such a large neighbourhood, we wanted residents to be able to connect with those closest to them when they arrived. We had a large map printed out and coloured and numbered five different areas and arranged the tables and numbered them with the coloured areas so residents could easily find and met up with those closest to them. We had Firesmart booklets, and various emergency booklets on Earthquake and general emergency preparedness. We had pamphlets, checklists, and instructions for each table so it was easy and simple for each group to follow and go through the emergency preparedness suggestions.
Out of this event we have had two more meetings in our smaller neighbourhood to go over more detailed planning and we plan to continue to do more emergency preparedness work as there is so much involved in emergency planning. From first aid training, to storing first aid supplies, food, and having other ways to put up make-shift shelters, and making sure elderly neighbours and those with disabilities are taken care of.
With very dry (but very important) information and discussion to be had, we made it alot easier to digest 😉 with food at each table, with coffee and tea and desserts. We had prizes to give out and everyone was glad that they had come, many met new neighbours, and learned how unprepared we are if a big emergency happens. We were all eager to get prepared!
