Clearwater’s Emergency Support Services has a new director. Grant Gale is replacing Cheryl Thomas, who is taking on the position of alternate director. Gale was also a past chair of the former Wells Gray Emergency Support Group.
ESS is the team of local volunteers that assists people evacuated from their residences due to fires, floods, hazardous materials spills, etc. Part of Emergency Management BC, the program will provide food and lodging for up to 72 hours for those who need it. It may also supply clothing, medication and other essentials if necessary.
Clearwater ESS is currently canvassing local businesses to arrange purchase agreements for these supplies prior to any possible emergency. These items are not donations, as the suppliers will be reimbursed by EMBC for authorized purchases. This canvass also helps the team assess the level to which the community can support an emergency event.
The needs may be for a single person or family displaced by a house fire, or for many people who may be evacuated from an apartment building or subdivision. ESS works closely with other emergency responders such as fire departments, police and search and rescue during such events.
Motels may be available for short term lodging, while local restaurants or grocery stores can provide meals or food for the short term. Clothing stores may provide low cost clothing for some who may have nothing more than the clothes on their backs when forced to leave their homes. Group lodging can be set up in community centers, arenas or schools if needed.
Clearwater ESS has about a dozen active members. The team meets on the second Wednesday of every month at the TNRD library in Clearwater. For those interested in learning more, there will be a sign up table at the Health and Wellness Fair at Clearwater Secondary School on Feb. 2. You may also contact Grant, Cheryl or any team member for further information.