FORT ST. JOHN -- Communities across the Peace Region are set to benefit from a provincial grant aimed at enhancing emergency operations centres.
The funding announced Thursday by the province is being provided amid preparations for what is projected to be another busy wildfire season.
“As we move into the wildfire season, we know that many communities may need to activate their emergency operations centres to respond and support people in their areas,” said Bowinn Ma, Minister of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness.
Close to 100 communities across British Columbia will receive up to $30,000 to equip government and First Nations to respond to climate-related emergencies.
Fort St. John, Chetwynd, and Taylor will receive the provincial investment provided through the Emergency Preparedness Fund.
According to a provincial release, Fort St. John will receive $30,000 that will go towards developing a new emergency operations centre.
The District of Taylor will receive $6500 for EOC training, supplies, and to conduct an exercise project.
Chetwynd is receiving just shy of $30,000 for the development and training of frontline response teams.
The district is also looking to partner with Saulteau and West Moberly First Nations on evacuation notice and route planning.
The province says the money will allow cities and First Nations to better prepare for the impacts of climate-related emergencies.
“Local emergency operations centres are crucial for co-ordinating emergency response to keep people safe," said Minister Ma.
