Spring 2010 Newsletter

A Message from PEP (Dave Ferguson)
I am pleased to report that the amalgamation of the Provincial Emergency Program, Office of the Fire Commissioner and BC Coroner’s Service under the new Emergency Management British Columbia (EMBC) is well under way. The new model strengthens EMBC’s ability to maintain critical public safety services through enhanced integration and simplified business processes. The efficiencies and enhanced effectiveness generated by these targeted changes will protect services and assist us in achieving our goal of being an international leader in emergency management.

Full article can be found on page 9.

Exercise

ESSA is a non-profit association established to support Emergency Social Services (ESS) volunteers and communities in British Columbia in the development and maintenance of their ESS program. ESSA is not an Emergency Response Organization.

ESSA's role is to provide assistance to more than 5,000 community ESS volunteers around the province through a variety of programs. These ESS volunteers are the people who respond when disasters occur and their fellow citizens' lives are disrupted.  When these events occur, community emergency plans kick into action.  Teams of local ESS volunteers are activated to provide victims and evacuees with food, lodging, clothing and emotional support - services that are essential to their emotional and physical well-being - for up to 72 hours.

Recognize

Through our newsletter, the annual ESS Conference and representation at a variety of provincial conferences, ESSA actively promotes recognition of the work of ESS Volunteers around the province.

Train

ESSA contributes to the ongoing education and awareness of ESS volunteers through a variety of free seminars and workshops held annually in all parts of the province. The Association also publishes a quarterly newsletter to share information on new developments, upcoming events, and policy and procedural changes. The website has a learning section which highlights training opportunities.

Respond

ESSA offers direction to its members. The Association is the voice of ESS volunteers around the province and carries their concerns about issues and preparedness to municipal councils and to the provincial government.