In January 2018, an 7.9 magnitude earthquake rocked off the coast of Kodiak, Alaska, triggering early morning tsunami warnings up and down the coast.
Emergency protocol fared well in Oak Bay, with two folks arriving at the reception centre set up just in case, but the warning called off before most residents even woke.
If it happened today, those same residents could receive a valuable alert, and information on their phones, if they’ve registered.
Using technology before, during and after emergencies is the provincial theme for Emergency Preparedness Week taking place from May 5 to 11.
The Oak Bay Emergency Preparedness (OBEP) program plans to test its Alertable app during the week.
OBEP uses the subscriber based public alerting platform, said program manager Jacob Tilson.
It means the district can alert residents specifically and provide information on a steady basis.
“What that allows us to do is socialize it throughout Oak Bay so people can sign up with their phone number and email,” Tilson said. “We’ve grown a great subscriber base on that.”
Find links to the free app and registration details online at oakbay.ca/public-safety/emergency-program/oak-bay-alerts.
OBEP is also looking to increase awareness of the program and build familiarity with residents. That includes a new brochure and branding on its communications trailer.
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“If we are in a situation where we’re responding and our volunteers are out, folks know that logo is as safe space and what we represent,” Tilson said.
The new brochure, expected out soon, consolidates key information.
“We wanted to take those brochures and put them into one so folks have a one-stop-shop,” Tilson said.
It’s set up to help residents start the process of being more prepared, outlining emergency management and planning at the district, items such as key hazards that could reasonably impact Oak Bay from earthquake and tsunami to extreme weather events or critical infrastructure interruption.
“We’re really just trying to make some of the clutter out of emergency planning and make it more manageable for folks to be prepared.”
OBEP will also attend the Emergency Preparedness Expo at Heritage Acres, 7321 Lochside Dr. on May 5.
Hosted by Central Saanich fire and Peninsula Emergency Measures Organization the free fun family event, including live demonstrations, runs 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.