Let's Build Resilient Communities
The Comox Valley Emergency Program (CVEP) is excited to announce the soft launch of its refreshed and simplified Neighbourhood Emergency Preparedness Program (NEPP) and Guide. This program and guide will provide important tools and direction to ensure Comox Valley communities are prepared in case of an emergency.
Neighbourhood Emergency Preparedness Program Guide
Most initial disaster relief is provided not by formal emergency and relief organizations, but by residents of the impact area and surrounding communities.
-- 'Common Misconceptions about Disasters' by Erik Auf der Heide
NEPP was identified as a key initiative by the CVRD Board of Directors to help ensure Comox Valley communities are prepared in case of an emergency. While personal and household preparedness is important, NEPP builds resilience at the community level. By working together with your immediate neighborhood, you will not be alone in times of need.
Individuals and neighbourhoods need to be prepared to be self-sufficient for a week or more following a major disaster.
Program Highlights:
- NEPP fosters social connections and mutual assistance within a neighbourhood setting.
- For several days after a major disaster, help from neighbours may be the only help available. It's important to build those relationships beforehand so you're prepared, should a distaster occur.
- Research shows that in a disaster, people working together have a better chance of survival than individuals acting alone. They also recover much faster emotionally.
- It is important residents are prepared to be self-sufficient during emergency situations with emergency kits, water and have proper plans in place for family and pets. To learn more about emergency preparedness, visit our Emergency Preparedness page.
Create Your NEPP Plan
This section leads you step-by-step through the stages of creating a basic NEPP plan. You may be surprised by how easy it is!