Working Together Toward Emergency Preparedness, Western Region

EMERGENCY MEASURES ORGANIZATION--Working Together Toward Emergency Preparedness, Western Region

This is the first in a series of feature articles leading up to Emergency Preparedness Week, May 4-10.

An emergency can happen at any time and unfortunately, victims are sometimes not prepared to deal with the aftermath. Fortunately for Nova Scotians, there are organizations whose mission is to help in times of disaster. The Red Cross and The Salvation Army are two such organizations.

"Volunteers are the lifeblood of any emergency situation," said Mike Lester, executive director of Nova Scotia's Emergency Measures Organization. "Committed to helping others, the Red Cross and Salvation Army are invaluable members of the emergency response team."

The Red Cross' mandate is to serve as an auxiliary to the civil authorities in matters of disaster relief. Under an agreement with the Department of Community Services, the Red Cross is contracted to provide food, clothing, shelter, registration, inquiry and personal services. That means they help fire and medical officials, police and other authorities following a disaster. Their mission is to help people deal with situations that threaten their survival, safety, security, well being and human dignity.

During the recovery phase, the Red Cross carries out extensive assessments of damage and assists residents in rebuilding their lives and communities.

Like the Red Cross, The Salvation Army is present when a disaster strikes. Part of the army's mission is to supply basic human needs. They are often responsible for counselling, transportation, emergency housing, food or clothing. They take on the role most needed, as assigned by authorities on-site.

The Salvation Army has a unique quasi-military structure, enabling them to move into action quickly. They draw on officer- personnel resources, volunteers and financial support from the public to ensure they're brought to where the need is greatest. They are well equipped to handle any demands made, in a disciplined and resourceful manner.

Both organizations provide relief across the province, the region and in other parts of the world. They respond to emergencies of all proportions.

Heavy rain falls during the first week of April resulted in severe flooding in many Nova Scotia communities. The Red Cross responded in Kentville and Yarmouth providing relief supplies and cleanup kits.

"The work of the Red Cross begins long before a disaster strikes," said John Bryne, Nova Scotia regional director of the Red Cross. "Emergency preparedness is ongoing. When people or communities are affected by disaster the Red Cross is there, across the street and around the world."

During the flooding in Kentville, The Salvation Army also provided assistance. Staff, officers and volunteers activated their emergency team and were prepared to assist in any way possible.

"We were able to provide clothing and food for flood victims, as well as moral support to those who lost personal possessions and were displaced from their homes," said Major Bond Jennings, Kentville corps officer. "We continued to make our presence known by attending follow-up information meetings at the local town hall throughout the week."

The Emergency Measures Organization, Red Cross and The Salvation Army all emphasize the need to prepare for emergencies. Emergency Preparedness Week takes place May 4-10 with participation from every province and territory. This year's theme is Prepare Now! Learn How!

For more information, visit the Emergency Measures Organization Web site at www.gov.ns.ca/emo/.