Burnaby Neighbourhood House - Emergency Preparedness and Response

Last year, British Columbia experienced a heatwave like none other. Those most impacted by the heatwave were seniors. Burnaby Neighbourhood House experienced this firsthand last year when one of the seniors who frequented the neighbourhood house passed away. Although agencies across B.C., like Burnaby Neighbourhood House did their best to ensure the safety of older adults, through health checks and providing fans where they could, the heatwave came as a shock leaving many unprepared.

This year, as temperatures rise, Burnaby Neighbourhood House was prepared. Beginning their emergency response planning in the spring, the Neighbourhood House has created heat care packages to give to the older adults they serve. The packages include: thermometers, spray bottles, donated fans, and info sheets on how to stay cool during the heat. They also have volunteers and employees do wellness checks during the heat. The questions they ask during the wellness check were created in collaboration with of health care providers to help identity if a senior is at risk of suffering from a heat related issue. Agencies like Burnaby Neighbourhood House provide a sense of comfort for older adults during these times.

During these extreme temperatures, it is vital to ensure that people around you are safe, especially older adults. Emergency Preparedness planning is key to ensuring this safety. Being prepared before or during can make a large difference. UWBC is currently offering an Emergency Preparedness Response and Planning Grant of up to $25,000 for agencies