The Beaufort Avenue neighbourhood in the Town of Comox is encouraging others to build stronger community connections through emergency preparedness, drawing on nearly a decade of local experience.
Beaufort Avenue is one of several neighbourhoods participating in the Neighbourhood Emergency Preparedness Program (NEPP), a resident led initiative that helps neighbours work together to prepare for emergencies. Jointly developed and supported by Comox Valley Emergency Management and community partners, the program provides tools and resources that can be adapted to the unique needs of each neighbourhood.
The Beaufort Avenue NEPP started nearly 10 years ago, when Cecelia Hund-Reid and her husband attended an emergency preparedness workshop shortly after moving to the area. There, they learned how preparation before an emergency directly affects how quickly and easily people recover after a disaster.
“We know that neighbourhoods that are organized before an emergency are more likely to save lives, reduce damage, and be more efficient when it comes to recovery,” said Hund-Reid.
Inspired by what they learned, they decided to champion an NEPP committee for their neighbourhood, bringing together residents from single-family homes, apartment buildings, medical clinics, cafes, and restaurants.
Over the past decade, the group has taken gradual steps to prepare as individuals, households, and neighbours. They host two presentations each year and organize regular community potlucks, creating opportunities for neighbours to learn about emergency preparedness, contribute to their neighbourhood plan, and build relationships.
“When neighbours choose to work together, they improve their ability to support one another,” explains Cari McIntyre, Manager of Comox Valley Emergency Management. “We appreciate neighbourhood champions who take the lead in strengthening community resilience, like the community on Beaufort Avenue.”
McIntyre says neighbourhood connections often become the first line of support during an emergency.
“Neighbour‑to‑neighbour support is usually the most immediate help available after an emergency, regardless of its scale. Local efforts also help reduce pressure on emergency services, which must prioritize resources during a disaster,” said McIntyre. “Creating neighbourhood connections and putting practical street-level or apartment-complex plans in place ahead of time will make a big difference for you, your loved ones and pets, and the person next door.”
To learn more about the NEPP program and access resources to get started, visit www.comoxvalleyrd.ca/nepp.
Comox Valley Emergency Management (CVEM) is a regional service administered by the Comox Valley Regional District in partnership with the City of Courtenay, Village of Cumberland, Town of Comox and K’ómoks First Nation to provide emergency management services and support to the region.
The Comox Valley Regional District is a partnership of three electoral areas and three municipalities operating on the unceded traditional territory of the K’ómoks First Nation, the traditional keepers of the land. The members of the regional district work collaboratively on providing sustainable services for the benefit of the diverse urban and rural areas of the Comox Valley.
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Media Contact
Cari McIntyre
Manager, Comox Valley Emergency Management
250-334-6096