The RDEK is receiving $320,000 from the provincial government in support of its emergency operations centre, which manages emergencies such as wildfires and floods that threaten communities across the East Kootenay region.
"Local emergency operations centres (EOC) are crucial in co-ordinating response efforts and safeguarding communities during emergencies," said Kelly Greene, Minister of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness. "That's why we're providing communities with tools and training for staff and volunteers at emergency operations centres. These supports will allow local governments and First Nations throughout B.C. to better respond to emergencies."
Sub-applicants of the RDEK's funding include ʔaq'am, Canal Flats, Cranbrook, Fernie, Invermere, Kimberley, Radium Hot Springs and the Shuswap Band, according to a news release. The funding will go towards full-scale EOC training and exercises and supplies operational, communications and IT equipment.
All told, the province is providing nearly $7 million to support 139 emergency operation centre projects, benefiting 183 communities through the Community Emergency Preparedness Fund (CEPF).
These funds will be used to purchase supplies and fund training and exercises to support staff and boost response capacity.
Emergency operations centres co-ordinate people, actions and resources, and support first responders on the ground. They also ensure people receive timely information, shelter assistance and other vital services throughout an emergency.
The Province has invested $369 million into the CEPF since it was established in 2017. Including this intake, more than $342 million has been provided to First Nations and local governments for more than 2,500 projects. Since 2017, approximately $23 million has been invested to support local emergency operations centres. This fund is administered through the Union of BC Municipalities.
