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Richmond partners with Red Cross for emergency response

The Canadian Red Cross has entered into an agreement with the City of Richmond to provide support in the event of an emergency or natural disaster. The partnership will come into effect Feb.
Red Cross
Richmond residents can become emergency response volunteers.

The Canadian Red Cross has entered into an agreement with the City of Richmond to provide support in the event of an emergency or natural disaster.

The partnership will come into effect Feb. 1 to help residents who are displaced by fire, flood, an earthquake or other emergencies.

The Red Cross is also appealing for volunteers from Richmond to help deliver these emergency services.

For small and medium emergencies, the City of Richmond will call on the Red Cross to access its volunteer-based responders and established resources to provide food, transportation, lodging and incidentals for up to 72 hours to displaced residents.

“Red Cross Emergency Support Services volunteers are ready to respond 24 hours a day to meet the immediate needs of people impacted by an event like a house fire or flood,” said Pat Quealey vice-president, Canadian Red Cross in B.C. and Yukon. “When an emergency happens in Richmond, the Canadian Red Cross will be there to support the community.”

 “The core of this program is the offering of necessary supports to help with people’s recovery needs and preserve their emotional and physical well-being,” said Richmond’s Mayor Malcolm Brodie.

For larger events, the city will continue to coordinate with Emergency Management British Columbia, regional partners and other organizations, including the Red Cross, to ensure a coordinated and timely response.

Those interested in volunteered can learn about the program and apply by visiting RedCross.ca/volunteer or emailing volunteerBCY@redcross.ca.