A good time to visit with Elders and talk about our history of being prepared
First Nations cultures include being prepared for challenging weather. Many First Nations communities pass down oral narratives about historical events to prepare future generations for natural disasters. Specifically, these stories describe tsunami events, floods, fires, landslides and earthquakes.
Community preparedness remains a top priority for First Nations communities. Being prepared includes prescribed burning to mitigate fire risk, which also enhances grasslands. This practice increases the numbers of game in the area. Salmon harvesting and smoking and other food preparation ensure adequate food stores of food for winter months. Seasonal activities ensure that equipment and tools are constantly ready for future use.
Challenging weather can occur at any time, like for example, the recent Earthquake in the Yukon. This was a reminder that earthquakes are to be expected. Earthquakes cannot only damage our homes, but can also prevent us from reaching our homes. Roads and bridges need to be assessed and after-shocks can occur. Consider your daily travels and what you would do if you were stranded. Having some cash, food and water will provide you and your family comfort.
Recent flooding in the interior region (and across Canada) has been a reminder that weather is difficult to predict. I attend the Provincial Regional Coordination calls and I inform FNHA leadership about emergency events. Last week, forecasts entering the weekend made it appear that water levels were going to go down and that flooding was not anticipated; however, by Saturday morning, that weather synopsis was false. Many areas of the interior have experienced major flooding including Skeetchestn First Nation, Adams Lake Indian Band, Okanagan First Nations and Lower Nicola Band communities that are dealing with washouts, flooding and landslides.
May 7 to 13 is Emergency Preparedness Week. This week is a great time to consider the hazards around your home and work. Consider how prepared you are and how you can improve. Now is also a good time to talk to Elders to learn about past events and what was done to ensure readiness to respond.
By David Reid, FNHA Manager of Emergency Management