ARCHIVED - Ministers Toews and Moore Encourage British Columbians to ShakeOut
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Earthquake preparedness will help save lives
OTTAWA, October 19, 2011 – The Honourable Vic Toews, Canada's Minister of Public Safety, and the Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages and Regional Minister for British Columbia, today encouraged British Columbians to participate in ShakeOut, the largest emergency drill in Canadian history. ShakeOut will take place on October 20 at 10:20 a.m. PST.
“In the past year, we have seen the serious effects of natural disasters in communities in Canada and internationally. While we can't always predict what nature has in store for us, there are ways to prepare, to keep our families and communities safe,” said Minister Toews. “That is why I encourage British Columbians, who live in the region most at risk from a major earthquake, to practice the “Drop, Cover and Hold On” protocol in this year's ShakeOut drill.”
The Minister also reminded all Canadians to review the Government of Canada's updated Earthquake Guide, which provides clear, important advice for individuals and families in the event of an earthquake.
“Emergency services are overwhelmed in times of natural disaster; they can only focus on those in urgent need. Individuals who are prepared to cope on their own for at least the first 72 hours can help minimize the impact on themselves and their loved ones. Every one of us should be aware of the risks, make a plan and obtain an emergency kit,” stated the Minister.
“Earthquake preparedness is important for all Canadians, but especially British Columbians. As the regional minister responsible for British Columbia, I understand the threat earthquakes pose to this province,” said Minister Moore. “That is why I am pleased to see British Columbians preparing for this important drill.”
Partners who collaborated with Public Safety in the preparation of the Earthquake Guide include Natural Resources Canada, as well as Public Safety Canada's partners in emergency management, the Canadian Red Cross and St. John Ambulance.
For quick and easy tips on how to prepare for emergencies and other safety-related information, visit: GetPrepared.ca and follow @Get_Prepared on Twitter.
For more information on emergency management in Canada, please visit Public Safety Canada's website publicsafety.gc.ca.
Further information on ShakeOut can be found at: http://www.shakeoutbc.ca/
Information:
Media Relations
Public Safety Canada
613-991-0657
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