2024 Wounded Warrior Run BC in Sayward on Monday, February 26th

by | Feb 22, 2024 04:16 | Posts



It is time again for the annual Wounded Warrior Run in BC. This year’s Vancouver Island participants will be leaving Woss and arriving in Sayward on Monday, February 26th. Come out and cheer them on!

Wounded Warriors Canada (WWC) is a nationally-recognized mental health service provider dedicated to serving ill and injured Trauma Exposed Professionals (TExPs) and their families in both official languages.

Our range of clinically facilitated programs have been developed to support the unique needs of Veterans, First Responders and their families. Our programs support individuals, couples, spouses, surviving Family members, and children of those who serve or have served our country and communities.


Find out more about the Wounded Warriors.

SRD Virtual Emergency Support Services Information Sessions

by | Feb 22, 2024 03:57 | Posts

SRD Virtual Emergency Support Services Information Sessions

Have you ever wondered how a family receives help when they are displaced by a disaster? Emergencies and disasters can occur unexpectedly, causing significant disruptions and putting people’s lives and well-being at risk. Emergency Support Services (ESS) is the “heart of emergency response” that helps people have their basic needs cared for. ESS volunteers help communities prepare for, respond to, and recover from these events effectively.

The Strathcona Regional District (SRD) oversees eight Emergency Support Services programs that are specifically tailored to meet the needs of different communities. These programs are an integral part of SRD’s comprehensive regional strategy for disaster planning and are crucial for communities to enhance their resilience, protect lives, and facilitate a swift recovery in the face of emergencies and disasters.
Communities require Emergency Support Services for many reasons.
Emergencies often result in the displacement of individuals and families from their homes. ESS respondents fully assess those displaced by the emergency to evaluate their needs immediately following the event; complete documentation and ensure the appropriate supports are provided, such as shelter, clothing, food, comfort.

Emergencies can cause emotional distress and trauma. ESS respondents support the recovery of impacted individuals by providing referrals to partner agencies and other community-based assistance.
Within ESS there is a Pet Care Team because it is recognized that failure to care for pets during an emergency has negative implications for the emotional and physical well-being of both the guardian and the animal.

During disasters the Pet Care Team offers assistance by providing services such as:

· Setting up of temporary animal intake shelters, including care and maintenance of animals.
· Reuniting pets with their guardians.

The Regional District invites community members to learn more about your community’s Emergency Support Services by attending a virtual information session.

· Session 1 – Tuesday February 27th from 7:00 pm – 7:30 pm
· Session 2 – Wednesday February 28th from 7:00 pm – 7:30 pm

Both sessions will be the same. No preregistration is necessary. For more information and to obtain the Zoom link for these sessions please visit www.srd.ca/ess-recruitment.

If you would like more information or are interested in volunteering but unable to attend one of these sessions, please contact Shaun Koopman, SRD Manager of Emergency Services at skoopman@srd.ca or 250-830-6702.

The chainsaw: a great friend, a terrible enemy!

by | Feb 6, 2024 06:39 | Posts

The chainsaw: a great friend, a terrible enemy!


Using a chainsaw entails inherent risks that demand careful consideration and adherence to safety protocols. One of the primary dangers lies in the powerful, rapidly rotating chain, capable of causing severe injuries or even fatalities if mishandled. Improper operation, such as applying too much force, inadequate control, or neglecting proper maintenance, can lead to kickbacks, a sudden and violent reaction that can result in loss of control. Inadequate personal protective equipment, like the absence of safety goggles, gloves, or hearing protection, exposes users to potential hazards. Additionally, working with a chainsaw in challenging conditions, such as on uneven terrain or in adverse weather, further amplifies the risks.

Learn how to handle a chainsaw safely with the instruction of lifelong logger and local Sayward resident Don Bruce. This workshop will be held during the 3rd week of April. Contact Don at zeballoslogger@gmail.com for more information.