COURTENAY, B.C.- The Comox Valley Emergency Program is hosting something special this evening.
Program Coordinator Howie Siemens said the event is a thank you to all the local emergency crews that helped in the fight against the wildfires across BC last summer.
“They can share their stories with the public, and they (attendees) can hear some of the impacts and assistance they offered to each of those communities,” Siemens said.
The event will feature members of Comox Valley Ground Search and Rescue, the Courtenay, Comox and Oyster River fire departments, Emergency Support Services (ESS), Emergency Radio Communications, the BC Wildfire Services, RCMP, Red Cross, the Salvation Army and St. John Ambulance.
“There will be several agencies offering preparedness information,” Siemens explained.
Emergency kits will also be available for attendees to purchase. Siemens said it’s always important to be prepared in case of an emergency.
“Wildfire events are increasing, and they are one of our hazards on Vancouver Island as well, but even people who travel all over the province for their vacations, wildfires are a high risk and high threat for the province of British Columbia,” he said.
The event is free to attend, and takes place at North Island College’s Stan Hagen Theatre. Doors open at 6:00 p.m., with the event beginning at 6:15 p.m.
