Maple Ridge offers free earthquake-preparedness workshops alongside Great BC ShakeOut

The City of Maple Ridge is inviting residents to attend a new free workshop series, Be Earthquake Ready, ahead of and following the annual Great BC ShakeOut on Thursday, Oct. 15. Hosted by the City’s Emergency Program, the sessions build on Be Emergency Ready workshops offered during the past 18 months.

Participants will learn about earthquake risk in British Columbia, actions to take during and immediately after an earthquake, household emergency planning, emergency-kit contents and ways to make homes and families safer. Emergency Program Manager Edd Bennett said earthquakes can occur without warning, but residents can take practical steps now to prepare.

All sessions will be held in the Fraser Room at the Public Library, 22470 Dewdney Trunk Rd. Workshops are scheduled for Monday, Oct. 5, at 1 p.m. and 6 p.m., and Monday, Oct. 26, at 1 p.m. and 6 p.m. They are free, but registration is required at MapleRidge.ca/EmergencyReadiness.

Residents are encouraged to practise Drop, Cover and Hold On with family, workplaces, schools or community groups during the Great BC ShakeOut at 10:15 a.m. on Oct. 15. More information is available at shakeoutbc.ca.

The City will also test its Alertable emergency alert system. Beginning Oct. 1, City-issued emergency alerts and instructions will be delivered through the Alertable app. Residents and businesses can sign up at MapleRidge.ca/Alert to receive alerts about fires, floods, earthquakes, severe weather, evacuation notices and other hazards.

The City advises residents to understand local risks, make a family emergency plan that includes arrangements for pets and livestock, and gather enough supplies to last from 72 hours to one week. Its Emergency Readiness Program operates year-round through public education, planning, training and coordination with regional and provincial partners.