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Predator prepares for emergency

Predator Ridge Community Emergency Management Committee provides an emergency management plan
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Photo submitted The Predator Ridge Community Emergency Management Committee requests appointment as a subcommittee of Vernon’s Emergency Management Organization.

The Predator Ridge Community Emergency Management Committee (PRCEMC) has been working tirelessly since its 2014 inception to provide residents with an emergency management plan.

The committee spoke to Vernon Council Monday to request appointment as a subcommittee of Vernon’s Emergency Management Organization (EMO), to be reviewed on an annual basis. A decision will be made by council at the next meeting.

“It is becoming more apparent each day that emergency planning must begin with families and move up from there,” said Randall Scott representing PRCEMC.

The committee oversees emergency planning in the community, including FireSmart, Block Watch, and ensuring the community is prepared should disaster strike.

“We are somewhat isolated. Basically, we live in a forest,” Scott said. “Give us a chance. Let us try and see how it works for a year.”

Through alignment with the EMO, the committee will have greater access to resources – such as training, volunteer registration and guidance – and can act as a liaison to help the EMO with coordination of volunteers, rather than having the responsibility fall to the City Emergency Program Coordinator.

“You guys have done a lot of good work here,” said Coun. Brian Quiring. “Whenever I look at that dry forest, it’s alarming.”

Coun. Juliette Cunningham agreed.

“I do commend you and hope we can make this work,” Cunningham said.

Scott said the pairing would also help provide credibility for Predator Ridge residents and motivate them to participate in emergency planning.

“Our volunteers would like and deserve that protection.”