The province is providing funds to local governments across B.C., including Pitt Meadows and Maple Ridge, to improve emergency support services for people evacuated from their homes during emergencies.
Victoria is distributing more than $5 million through the Community Emergency Preparedness Fund. Maple Ridge-Pitt Meadows MLA Lisa Beare explained some of that funding will strengthen emergency support services in Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows.
"We are so lucky to have such amazing volunteers here in Pitt Meadows and Maple Ridge, and it's always great when our government can provide support for such essential community services," said Beare.
"Funding to help modernize emergency supports as well as train more volunteers will help us be even more prepared in case of an emergency."
The City of Maple Ridge is receiving $40,000 for modernization and inventory upgrades, including devices to assist with ESS evacuee registration and assistance.
The City of Pitt Meadows will receive $32,000 for volunteer training.
Across B.C., there will be 113 projects to help communities expand their capacity to provide emergency support services through volunteer recruitment and retention, volunteer training, and the purchase of equipment.
The Community Emergency Preparedness Fund is designed to help local governments and First Nations better prepare for disasters and reduce risks from natural hazards in a changing climate. These programs include public notification, evacuation-route planning, emergency operations centre equipment and training, volunteer and composite fire department equipment and training, and Indigenous cultural safety and humility training.
