A realistic rescue mission in a Broadmead neighbourhood puts Saanich staff ahead of the curve when a real emergency strikes.
The drill – held during Safety and Health Week and Emergency Preparedness Week – provides an opportunity to focus employers, employees, partners and the public on the importance of preventing injury and illness in the workplace, at home and in the community, the district said in a news release.
“Saanich is deeply committed to the safety and well-being of all our workers – and regular emergency drills are one of the ways that we practice our response to emergency situations that may occur,” said David Sparanese, senior manager of public works. “These drills help expand awareness of roles and responsibilities, build competencies and give staff hands-on practice on how to assess and control an emergency situation and effectively coordinate a response.”
The emergency drill scenario on May 8 involved the technical rescue of a worker from a confined space, with staff participating from the Occupational Health and Safety and Public Works divisions, as well as the Saanich Police Department and Saanich Fire Services.
“Continuing to develop and sharpen these skills is not only useful from an internal staff perspective – it benefits the greater community as well,” Saanich Fire Assistant Deputy Chief Craig Ford said. “These drills demonstrate the capability of our crews and give Saanich residents confidence that the district can respond to any potential emergency in an organized, efficient and effective way.”
