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October 9, 2013

Bridge and tunnel commuters — or BATs —can expect difficulty reaching family following a moderate earthquake.

Are you a BAT?

Chances are you’re a BAT, or you work with someone who is.

Bridge and tunnel commuters — or BATs — count on critical infrastructure that won’t be passable following a moderate earthquake. You or a colleague could be cut off from loved ones for hours, or possibly days. Travelling within Vancouver will be challenging, too.

“Everyone — regardless of where you live — should be prepared to take care of themselves and their families for three to seven days after an earthquake,” says Danny Smutylo, emergency management coordinator for Vancouver Acute.

But, first, you need to survive the quake.

Shake it out on October 17

On the morning of October 17, 2013 — at exactly 1017 hrs — the entire west coast of North America will participate in an earthquake drill. Here in Canada, ShakeOut BC will be the country’s largest earthquake drill, and VCH is participating.

“ShakeOut BC is an opportunity to practice or learn new skills that could mean the difference between life and death for you, your family and our patients,” says Danny.

All Vancouver Acute staff are encouraged to join the drill. Here’s how:

  • Drop, cover and hold for two minutes: In North America, the majority of injuries sustained during an earthquake are caused by non-structural hazards, or flying and falling debris. The best way to protect yourself is to drop, cover and hold. Learn how to protect yourself during a quake.
  • Emergency Response Stations:  Immediately following the drop, cover and hold-on drill, units will hold a staff huddle to identify
    Each unit's Emergency Response Station will have resources you'll need in the event of an earthquake.

    Each unit’s Emergency Response Station will have resources you’ll need in the event of an earthquake.

    potential risks and to review contents of your unit’s Emergency Response Station like the one at right. This is where you’ll find your unit’s emergency response resources.

  • Fill out your unit census form: Vancouver Acute’sEmergency Operation Centre (EOC) will carry out an exercise immediately following our two minutes of drop, cover and hold. Your unit can contribute to this exercise by delivering its completed unit census form to the EOC.
  • Assess your unit/department’s emergency preparedness: Emergency Management and Workplace Health have developed an inspection checklist focusing on emergency preparedness planning. Joint Occupational Safety and Health Committees or department staff can use the checklist as a guide for monthly inspections. This checklist can also be used to assess your department’s emergency preparedness on October 17.
  • Take the survey and enter to win: Last, but definitely not least, complete the 2013 ShakeOut BC Survey and you’ll be entered in a draw for a $50 Mountain Equipment Co-op gift card, intended to help purchase your emergency supplies.    

Resources you can use

Emergency Management ShakeOut information on VCH Connect
Purchasing or making an emergency kit
ShakeOut BC website
Emergency Kit checklist

For more information contact: Danny Smutylo, emergency management coordinator, Vancouver Acute Services, Health Emergency Management BC