First I would like to thank local papers and the OPSRRA newsletter for allowing me space to provide this information.
Secondly to thank those of you who have stepped forward in both Otter Point and Sooke to learn more about the Pod Community Self Rescue and Self-Sufficiency Programs. Sooke has been inspired to initiate their own Pod System and I certainly encourage everyone’s awareness if not participation in that.
For Otter Point we have a total six Pods now with Captains - interestingly mostly the coastal Pods 1, 5a, 12, 14, 21 and 24. You should know what Pod you reside in. If it is one of those mentioned – see map on Otter Point FD website ‘Public Info’ tab OP Emergency Planning page, and you would like to contact your Pod Captain to see what it is about, offer support or see what support is available should you need it in a calamitous disaster contact myself and I shall direct you to them.
Pods can save lives on the short term of a disaster by preparing coastal residents within 100 vertical ft. of the sea level to get themselves above the 100’ mark when a major earthquake is felt. Not turn to CNN for the latest info!
On the longer term Pods allow for the coordinated support within neighborhoods when no outside help is coming for days or weeks and reconstruction may take months or more.
If you have a skill, leadership bent and are resourceful and interested in supporting your neighbourhood Pod , just to make folks aware, please contact me at 250-642-5124, or here at info@wilderquestadventures.com. Thanks very much, til next time be well.
Al Wickheim
Otter Point
Community
Coordinator
JdFEmergency Management Program