RCMSAR Emergency Supplies Container in East Sooke
The Royal Canadian Marine Search and Rescue’s (RCMSAR) mission has always been to safeguard lives on the water. Operating over 30 marine rescue stations along British Columbia’s coast, from the bustling Vancouver harbour to the remote waters of the North Coast, they stand ready 24/7 to respond to marine emergencies. However, their commitment to safety extends beyond the sea. Recently, Total Prepare had the priviledge of working alongside RCMSAR on their latest initiative aimed at enhancing community safety and emergency preparedness in East Sooke and the surrounding Sooke Basin.
“In partnership with BC Hydro, the District of Sooke, and through our own RCMSAR funds, we have successfully acquired, installed, and fully outfitted an emergency supplies container at our headquarters in East Sooke. This container is stocked with essential emergency supplies, including food, water, blankets, first aid kits, and communication aids, ready to support the local area during the critical first hours and days of a disaster.” – RCMSAR press release
The supplies can sustain up to 200 people for three days, featuring freeze-dried food with a 25-year shelf life and gluten-free options, ensuring that dietary needs are met, and everyone is cared for.
The Importance of Preparedness
The District of Sooke encourages all of their citizens to be prepared with “supplies for three to seven days to support your family.” Households that are prepared can significantly reduce the fear, anxiety, and losses that surround disasters. Prepared families are ready to evacuate, survive periods of confinement, make stays in public shelters more comfortable, and take care of basic medical needs. By preparing ahead of time, they reduce the strain on public resources and can even save lives.
But even when a family prepares, unexpected situations can separate individuals from their supplies, or increase the duration of an emergency. Having additional supplies available for the community is a wonderful way to help those without the resources to get prepared or bolster prepared families in need.
RCMSAR recognizes the importance of emergency preparedness at sea, and on land, especially in communities with limited road access and infrastructure like East Sooke. This initiative is not just about stocking shelves; it’s about building a stronger, more resilient community capable of responding swiftly and effectively to crises.
Building Partnerships for Greater Impact
RCMSAR’s efforts in East Sooke are part of a broader strategy to increase their partnerships with provincial and municipal emergency organizations. By working closely with these organizations, both at the RCMSAR level and through their 31 community-based stations, they aim to enhance emergency preparedness across all the communities they serve.
Commitment to Community Safety
“We are proud to play a role in enhancing emergency preparedness and are committed to continuing our efforts to keep our communities safe, both on land and on the water. Whether facing a major disaster or a minor incident, having these resources readily available will make a significant difference for East Sooke and Sooke Basin residents in their time of need.
At RCMSAR, we believe that together, we are stronger and better prepared to face whatever challenges come our way. We extend our deepest gratitude to BC Hydro, the District of Sooke, and all our partners for their support in making this initiative possible.
For more information about our emergency preparedness efforts and how you can get involved, please visit our website or contact us directly. Together, we can build a safer, more resilient community.”
