In light of the major earthquake that has recently devastated so much of Nepal, this year’s Emergency Preparedness Week is a good time to think about what your life would be like in the event of a major earthquake.
During this year’s Emergency Preparedness Week, which runs from May 3rd to 9th, the Cities of Coquitlam and Port Moody are inviting residents and businesses to experience a simulated 8.0 magnitude earthquake.
On May 6, 2015 from 11:00am to 7:00pm you can visit the southwest corner of Coquitlam Centre’s parking lot to experience the Quake Cottage™ – a mobile trailer that shakes and moves, creating the experience of a major earthquake.
In addition to the simulator, local first responder and non-profit organizations will be on hand to provide valuable information on how you, your family, and your business can be prepared for a major emergency. These will include:
- Coquitlam Amateur Radio Emergency Services Society
- Coquitlam Emergency Management Office
- Coquitlam Fire / Rescue
- Coquitlam RCMP
- Coquitlam Search and Rescue
- FortisBC
- Insurance Bureau of Canada
- Port Moody Fire / Rescue
- Red Cross
- Salvation Army
- St John Ambulance
The Quake Cottage™ will be spending a week in the Lower Mainland, thanks to sponsorship from the Insurance Bureau of Canada, FortisBC and participating municipalities. Additional in-kind sponsorship for Coquitlam and Port Moody’s event has also been provided by Coquitlam Centre.
Emergencies and disasters can happen anywhere at any time. Everyone should be prepared to take care of their basic needs for at least the first 72 hours following a disaster.
If you have been thinking about putting together an emergency kit and do not know what to put in that emergency preparedness kit other than a roll of toilet paper, a cross-bow and a case of pork and beans, you can visit the Emergency Management BC website to get a list of other important items to add to your kit.
For more information on emergency preparedness, visit www.coquitlam.ca/ep.