Photo credit: Regional District of East Kootenay (2024)
The Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) is looking to build community when stuff hits the fan in this year’s National Emergency Preparedness Week.
“The theme of Emergency Preparedness Week this year is ‘In it Together,’ and knowing which emergency services exist and operate in your area is a big part of the community building process,” says RDEK Protective Services Manager, Christina Carbrey.
The week starts May 4 and wraps up on May 10 with the second annual Emergency Preparedness Fair in Invermere. Families can get hands-on demos and expert tips, as well as play games – all designed to help residents prepare for wildfires, floods and extreme weather.
“We live in a region that’s beautiful, but it is also at risk,” said Simran Sandhu, emergency program coordinator with the RDEK. “Every year, we see wildfires, road closures, sometimes even evacuations. The more prepared we are as individuals and communities, the safer we will be.”
Roughly 12 to 15 different organizations are attending the event, including BC Wildfire, Columbia Valley RCMP, the Salvation Army, Firesmart programs, local fire departments, and more.
“This is a reminder that preparedness does not have to be overwhelming. It is about taking small steps, small manageable steps to protect yourself, your family and your neighbours.”
The fair is slated to run from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, May 10, at the back parking lot of Eddie Mountain Memorial Arena (502 13th St). All are welcome to attend.
You can find more details about Emergency Preparedness on the RDEK website. Elk Valley is set to host the fair in 2026.
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