Provincial funding is coming to the Nechako Valley area for new training for Emergency Support Services responders.
“Last summer, we heard from people who wanted to help evacuees but faced barriers in getting trained to do so,” said Minister of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness Bowinn Ma.
“We’re acting on lessons learned by rolling out a new one-day training option to enable more people to respond in times of need, helping to ensure that evacuees are supported in an effective and timely manner.”
Emergency Support Services is a provincially funded program administered by local governments and First Nations, which provides temporary support, including essentials such as accommodation, food, clothing, and transportation for those unable to meet their needs when evacuated.
The province is launching a one-day training model for ESS responders, condensing the current week-long training model.
In addition, the District of Vanderhoof is receiving $30,000 for ESS equipment, training and a recognition project.
“Through the generous support of EMCR, we will be bringing training to our community to better prepare our team of volunteers to respond to evacuations as a result of emergencies and disasters,” said Vanderhoof Fire Rescue Fire Chief Craig Smith.
“This will result in timely training available to all volunteers, rather than asking volunteers to travel to another community to receive training. Local training will also benefit the team to prepare for geographically relevant emergencies.”
Regional District of Bulkley-Nechako is receiving $89,984 fore group lodging, remote support and Network of Emergency Support Services Teams.
Nak’azdli Whut’en and the District of Fort St. James are receiving $59,333.81.