Hurricanes, wildfires, floods or tornadoes aren’t the only weather disasters in which our Emergency Disaster Services teams are called.
When winter weather puts our vulnerable neighbours at risk, our teams spring to action, setting up community response vehicles (CRU) to provide meals, warm drinks and winter essentials such as blankets, gloves, mitts and toques.
We have an important role to help alleviate all suffering―physical, emotional and spiritual. We can’t prevent harsh winter conditions, but we can certainly be there for those who could suffer because of them.
-Dan Millar, Assistant Territorial Emergency Disaster Services Director
Training
We’re pleased to announce the following important training updates:
- Incident Command System (ICS) Canada: We’re expanding training in ICS 100/200 and 300 courses, enhancing our team's preparedness and coordination in emergency response.
- Standardized Education Progress Roadmap: We’re introducing standardized roadmaps for education progress within divisions, providing a more structured learning experience at all levels.
- NDTP Refresh: We’re embarking on a program refresh, from foundational courses to more specialized modules. This update will empower our team with the latest skills and knowledge.
- Streamlined Education for Deployments: We’re streamlining our education programs to ensure our volunteers are prepared to respond effectively, no matter their deployment location.
Thank you for your support as we work to enhance our team's capabilities. Your dedication and hard work are essential in our mission to serve those in need.
Preparedness
In just a few short months, wildfire season will be upon us. Did you know you can track active fires in Canada here?
For help with fire safety and reducing risk, FireSmart Canada offers free online training for those living in or near forested areas. Share with anyone you feel would benefit!
Last year, many of our EDS teams served their communities and divisions when wildfires struck. To help this year, contact your closest EDS team or email eds@salvationarmy.ca.
Volunteering
The THQ EDS and Volunteer Services team has been working to create more resources to increase volunteer engagement, particularly in the areas of volunteer recognition, communication, evaluation and retention. These will be ready by the end of January, with French resources to follow. Visit the Volunteer Services website (login required) for all EDS volunteer management resources.
Divisional Highlight
Check out the pictures throughout the newsletter of our EDS volunteers in action but not in emergencies! In Newfoundland, the Deer Lake and Corner Brook teams worked the kettles. Crews in Ottawa and North Bay, Ontario, spent time at a parade. In London, Ontario, teams built warming kits and enjoyed The Holiday Train. And Santa visited a community response vehicle in Calgary, while the team in Edmonton helped with a yummy Santa Shuffle cookout.
Left to right: Working kettles in Cornerbook, N.L.; a Santa visit in Calgary; The Holiday Train in London, Ont.
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