Strathcona Regional District Launches Emergency Preparedness Week With Free Training And Community Events – May 3rd, 4th, 8th In Sayward

Strathcona Regional District is marking Emergency Preparedness Week with a series of free public training sessions and community-focused events designed to help residents become better equipped to respond to natural disasters and emergencies.

The initiative is aimed at strengthening local resilience across the region by encouraging individuals, families, and neighbourhoods to take practical steps toward preparedness before an emergency occurs. Throughout the week, residents can participate in a variety of workshops and information sessions that focus on real-world skills such as building an emergency kit, developing a household emergency plan, and learning how to respond during critical situations like wildfires, earthquakes, severe storms, and other disruptions that can impact coastal and rural communities on Vancouver Island.

Organizers are also emphasizing the importance of understanding local hazards specific to the Strathcona region, where geography and weather patterns can increase exposure to events such as flooding, landslides, and tsunami risk in coastal areas. By providing accessible training and clear, actionable guidance, the program aims to ensure residents are not only informed but also confident in how to respond when emergencies arise.

The events bring together emergency management professionals, first responders, and community partners who will be sharing expertise and practical advice. Attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions, explore preparedness tools, and connect with local resources that can support them before, during, and after an emergency.

Officials with the regional district say the week is about more than just awareness—it’s about building long-term readiness at the household and community level. By making training free and open to the public, the program lowers barriers to participation and encourages more residents to take part in preparedness planning.

Emergency Preparedness Week serves as a reminder that while emergencies can be unpredictable, taking small, proactive steps now can significantly improve safety and response outcomes in the future.

Full schedule spans multiple communities and formats

The week’s events begin on May 2 with a two-day Marine (Basic) First Aid course in the Outer Discovery Islands and continue with a mix of in-person and online sessions.

Highlights include:

May 2–3

  • Marine (Basic) First Aid in the Outer Discovery Islands

May 3–4

  • Household preparedness and pet preparedness sessions on Cortes Island
  • Emergency (Basic) First Aid training on Quadra Island and in Campbell River
  • Structural Protection Unit demonstration in Sayward

May 6–7

  • Marine First Aid training in Zeballos
  • Intermediate first aid certification in Campbell River
  • Tsunami boater safety and household preparedness virtual sessions
  • Wildfire preparedness workshops in Tahsis and Gold River

May 8

  • Additional Emergency (Basic) First Aid sessions in Campbell River and Sayward

Organizers note that multi-day courses require attendance at all sessions to receive certification.

Village Of Sayward Hiring Labourer / Operator In Training

Entry-level municipal position offers hands-on training, competitive wages, and career development in public works

The Village of Sayward is inviting applications for a Labourer / Operator in Training, offering a local employment opportunity for residents interested in building a career in municipal public works and infrastructure operations.

The full-time position is part of the Village’s Public Works department and is designed to provide hands-on training in water and wastewater systems, road maintenance, parks, facilities, and general municipal operations. The role supports the day-to-day services that keep the community running while helping the successful candidate gain certifications and experience for long-term career growth.

Position details

According to the official job posting, the Labourer / Operator in Training position includes:

  • full-time municipal employment
  • hands-on training in public works operations
  • work in water and wastewater systems, roads, parks, and infrastructure
  • operation and maintenance of equipment
  • outdoor work in varying weather conditions
  • teamwork within the Village’s public works department

The position is intended to help the successful applicant develop the skills and certifications needed to advance within municipal operations and utilities.

Wage and benefits

The Village of Sayward notes that the position offers competitive wages based on qualifications and experience, along with training opportunities and a supportive municipal work environment focused on skill development and long-term employment.

The role provides an opportunity to gain valuable experience in essential community services while working locally in Sayward.

Qualifications and requirements

Applicants are expected to demonstrate:

  • a strong work ethic and willingness to learn
  • ability to work outdoors and perform physical labour
  • valid driver’s licence
  • ability to operate or learn to operate equipment
  • teamwork and communication skills
  • interest in public works and municipal operations

Experience in construction, equipment operation, or infrastructure maintenance is considered an asset, but training will be provided for the right candidate.

The Village emphasizes that individuals who may not meet every qualification but are motivated to learn and grow are encouraged to apply.

Supporting local employment

Municipal job opportunities like this are important for smaller communities such as Sayward, where stable local employment helps support essential services and retain skilled workers in the region.

The Labourer / Operator in Training role offers residents a chance to work close to home while contributing directly to community infrastructure and public services.

Application deadline and how to apply

Applicants are encouraged to review the full job posting and job description and submit their application to the Village of Sayward.

How to apply:

  • submit resume and cover letter
  • apply through the Village of Sayward job opportunities page
  • review full posting and job description on the Village website
  • applications must be submitted before the stated closing deadline in the posting

More information and the full job description are available on the Village of Sayward website under job opportunities.