Just because the recent alert for an increased earthquake risk has been called off, doesn't mean we shouldn't prepared. I am going out after work today to complete my earthquake preparedness kit.

Then I am going to make plans to get the heck out of Vancouver in April 2008.

People need to be ready to stay normal when things are not normal. If people went into a panic about water, imagine what Vancouver and The Lower Mainland, GVRD would be like if the snow and cold followed a few days after an earthquake.

Here is a list of sites that I've found that have very good information about being prepared for emergencies. The opinions expressed on some of these sites deal with Survivalism and do not necessarily relect my own. Many sites have their own links section for more information.

Hi,

So, in the Lower Mainland the boil water advisory has been lifted and the snow is melting. We once again return to normal. People need to be ready to stay normal when things are not normal. If people went into a panic about water, imagine what Vancouver and The Lower Mainland, GVRD would be like if the snow and cold followed a few days after an earthquake.

Here is a list of sites that I've found that have very good information about being prepared for emergencies. The opinions expressed on some of these sites deal with Survivalism and do not necessarily relect my own. Many sites have their own links section for more information.

What fun this white stuff is! I am actually not snowed in as many colleagues are, but I hurt my back slipping and sliding around on a long walk with my dog yesterday, so I have opted out of the 40 minute walk to work. Instead I am working from home today. And feeling lucky that I have one. I was imagining that shelters would be having a difficult time with this weather. And sure enough, they are.

I called the DTES Womens Shelter just now and spoke to their volunteer coordinator Sara (604) 681-8480 ext 224. From the sound of things they could really use some help. When I asked her what she needed the most, supplies or bodies, she couldn't decide. She suggested I bring hats, gloves, sweaters, blankets and when I asked her what would be the best time for me to come by for a shift, she paused to think about it and then answered: anytime. They are operating 24 hours right now and need all the help they can get round the clock.

If you are feeling inspired to change the way you relate to situations like this, I encourage you to head down there.

Also , I just called around a few car rental type places. I want to get someone to donate a car equipped to deal with the snow, so I can go around and collect scarves, hats, blankets or donations to deliver to the shelters who need them so badly. Watch this space.

NEPP Workshop #1: Personal Emergency Preparedness

Location: West End Community Centre - 870 Denman Street
Date: Nov 21, 2006
Time: 7:00 PM

Registration Information:
Phone: (604) 257-8333

Workshop Description:
Emergencies and disasters can happen with little or no warning. Being prepared could save your life or the lives of others and significantly improve your quality of living in the aftermath.

I will cheerfully admit to feeling a little smug that some months ago, I laid in an emergency supply of drinking water--a total of 16 liters, which at current rates of consumption should keep me in coffee and herbal tea for some time yet.

I took this step as a response to an emergency preparedness workshop at my local library, put on by the City of Vancouver to help residents understand how to prepare for an earthquake or what-have-you. Highly recommended, by the way.