The Town of Banff is hosting a Disaster Readiness Day to showcase the emergency equipment, vehicles and crews that would respond to flooding, wildfire, severe storms, human or wild animal attacks, and a range of other emergencies and potential disasters.
More than 20 organizations and emergency agencies are participating, including fire departments based in the Bow Valley, STARS air ambulance, Alpine Helicopters, Parks Canada fire/vegetation crews and wildlife resource officers, utility companies supporting the region, RCMP and its K-9 and Armoured Command Vehicle divisions, Search and Rescue Alberta, and Canada Task Force 2.
“On the 10th anniversary of the flooding disaster of 2013, we are assembling the crews and just some of the tools and heavy equipment we would use in emergencies to keep people and property safe in the event of disaster hitting the Bow Valley,” said Silvio Adamo, Banff Fire Chief and Director of Emergency Management for the Town of Banff.
“We want to show how prepared we are to face any type of emergency, and how a wide range of agencies are ready to work together for residents and visitors to Banff.”
Location: Banff Train Station Large East Parking Lot
Date: Sunday, May 7
Time: 12 – 4 p.m.
“In addition to giving residents an opportunity to see emergency vehicles and equipment up close, we are providing very important information about the simple steps individuals and businesses can take to make sure they are prepared for an emergency,” said Adamo. “We will provide information and resources to help people in Banff take responsibility to ensure their families are safe in the event of a disaster.”
The Banff Fire Department will showcase new sprinklers available for residents to install on roofs, available at a significant discount, as well as the roof replacement incentive program, the conifer tree replacement program, the FireSmart program for free home inspections and neighbourhood activities to help prevent the spread of wildfire. The Town will also help people sign up to receive emergency alerts.
Residents are encouraged to walk, cycle or skateboard to the Train Station as half of the 500 stalls will be taken up by the emergency expo. There will be very limited parking available in the area.
This event will take place rain or shine.