Dunbar Earthquake and Emergency Preparedness Society

DEEP (Dunbar Earthquake and Emergency Preparedness Society) is a community-led organization that has been active since 2012. We have two main programs:
1. Public education, outreach and training to encourage individuals to undertake their own emergency preparation, and to organize their neighbourhood to be able to work together after a disaster when first responders are focused on high priority situations and unable to reach individuals or communities for days or even weeks after a disaster.

Communities and individuals/families should be ready to fend for themselves for days, or longer. Your immediate help will come from those directly around you - the people you live with and your neighbours. If you and your neighbours are prepared before a disaster strikes, you will know how to help each other efficiently. This faster response could save a life, minimize injuries and reduce property damage.

2. Maintaining a Disaster Support Hub in a revamped shipping container in the park behind the Dunbar Community Centre. In a disaster, trained volunteers will come to the Hub to establish and maintain radio contact with Vancouver’s Emergency Communications network to receive and convey critical information.

The Hub is a place where community members can gather to exchange information, and coordinate their efforts to help each other during a disaster. The Hub’s volunteers and information boards will help link local needs with available resources, and disseminate information drawn from the Emergency Communications network and other reports. This information could range from water safety to locations for food, shelter or medical help, for example.

DEEP is an all volunteer group. We welcome volunteers who would like to participate in our emergency preparedness work. Bring your interest and enthusiasm, and we will train you! DEEP runs regular training exercises at the Hub.