Metchosin, Canada. Local progress report on the implementation of the 10 Essentials for Making Cities Resilient (First Cycle)

Metchosin, Canada Local progress report on the implementation of the 10 Essentials for Making Cities Resilient (First Cycle) Mayor: Mayor John Ranns Name of focal point: STEPHANIE DUNLOP Organization: DISTRICT OF METCHOSIN, BC CANADA Title/Position: EMERGENCY PROGRAM COORDINATOR E-mail address: FIRECHIEF@METCHOSINFIRE.CA Telephone: 250-478-1307 Reporting period: First Cycle (2011-2013) Last updated on: 09 February 2013 Print date: 06 May 2013 Reporting language: English A Local HFA Monitor update published by PreventionWeb http://www.preventionweb.net/english/hyogo/progress/reports/ First cycle of Local HFA (2011-2013) 1/34

Essential 1 Put in place organization and coordination to understand and reduce disaster risk, based on participation of citizen groups and civil society. Build local alliances. Ensure that all departments understand their role to disaster risk reduction and preparedness. How well are local organizations (including local government) equipped with capacities (knowledge, experience, official mandate) for disaster risk reduction and climate change adaptation? Many initiatives are in place in Metchosin that support Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) goals. These initiatives include the following: 1. POD: This is the Metchosin version of the neighbourhood emergency preparedness program. This program engages in capacity mapping activities (like locating personal property resources such as generators and chainsaws) for use in times of disaster, and also reduces risk to vulnerable populations by helping to ascertain the location of vulnerable persons. 2. Search and Rescue (SAR): This program provides DRR services such as vulnerable populations support during emergencies in addition to its mandate of searching for and rescuing members of the public in various circumstances. 3. Emergency Social Services (ESS): This program assists emergency and disaster victims with lodging, food, and transportation support. 4. Emergency Communications (ECOMM): This program ensures that communication lines will be available during times of disaster and telecommunications failure. 5. Fire Department: In addition to fire and emergency response, the fire department engages in risk reduction measures such the scotch broom clearing program and the application of Firesmart to driveways in new developments. 6. Seniors Helpline: A program is in place using grant funding with the desired outcome of providing a helpline for senior citizens to be used in part for disaster risk reduction. 7. Emergency Operations Centre (EOC): This centre allows for the efficient management of large emergencies and disasters, and for integration into larger disaster response in partnership with Emergency Management B.C (EMBC). Levels of human resources that are applied to DRR initiatives are commendable, and are comprised chiefly of volunteers. Management personnel consist of the part-time compensated Fire Chief and non-compensated leader-volunteers. These dedicated managers are highly invested in their duties, and possess DRR knowledge, experience and skills. First cycle of Local HFA (2011-2013) 2/34

To what extent do partnerships exist between communities, private sector and local authorities to reduce risk?? Partnerships exist at various levels that address disaster and emergency response and recovery, and DRR. In regional terms, Metchosin Emergency Program Group (EPG) members contribute at the following levels: 1. Local Government Emergency Program Advisory Commission (LGEPAC): The LGEPAC is focused on developing initiatives to create strong communication links and increased efficiencies for emergency programs, and in the planning and response phases of emergencies. 2. Regional Emergency Coordinators Advisory Commission (RECAC): This group encompasses all organizations engaged in emergency management. RECAC meets quarterly to look at the big picture and discuss how each organization has a role during a disaster, and how those roles can best work together. 3. Juan de Fuca (JDF) Emergency Program: This program provides comprehensive support, planning and management of emergency response in the Electoral Area through the operation of ESS. 4. Mutual Aid Agreements: The Metchosin Emergency Plan states that there is a disaster mutual aid agreement in place with neighboring municipalities. In municipal terms, applicable sub-committees exist: 1. The Agricultural Advisory Committee assists Metchosin Council in developing a plan to sustain and promote the agricultural community and to improve agricultural viability within Metchosin. 2. The Healthy Community Advisory Committee s (HCAC) role is to install community activities that support health, well-being and happiness while strengthening the sense of community.. Reference links: > CRD REGIONAL SERVICES http://www.crd.bc.ca/emergency/regionalservices/coordination.htm > CRD JDF EMERGENCY SERVICES http://www.crd.bc.ca/jdf/emergency/emergency.htm > DISTRICT OF METCHOSIN http://www.district.metchosin.bc.ca/siteengine/activepage.asp?pageid=10 > METCHOSIN http://metchosin.iwebez.com/siteengine/activepage.asp?pageid=88 How much does the local government support vulnerable local communities (particularly women, elderly, infirmed, children) to actively participate in risk reduction decision-making, policy making, planning and implementation processes? First cycle of Local HFA (2011-2013) 3/34

Metchosin has engaged in positive initiatives toward this end. First, the POD program (see 1.1.1) is well established. POD has activated in the past during snowstorms and power outages. Additionally, the recently struck HCAC committee (see 1.1.2) has resulted in the hiring of a co-ordinator with the mandate to institute a senior s helpline. This helpline will address the special needs of vulnerable seniors, which can include location, transportation, sustenance, and evacuation needs during emergencies and disasters. The helpline program concept development was participatory in nature and consisted of four town hall meetings where all residents were invited to participate in program visioning and goal development To what extent does the local government participate in the national DRR planning? Level of Progress achieved: 3? The United Nations International Strategy for Disaster Reduction (UN/ISDR) has a mandate to help local governments like Metchosin become more able to deal with disasters, reduce disaster risk, and become more resilient to disasters. The Resilient Communities Working Group supports this initiative by providing informed local advice on relevant strategies to the National Platform. The current mechanism for inputs from the local level to the National Platform is through local representative liaison with an EMBC representative. Metchosin does have the option and ability to confer with the National Platform directly. Nevertheless, Metchosin's current participation in this assessment process demonstrates clear contribution to the construction of new knowledge of DRR in the Canadian context. Reference links: > PUBLIC SAFETY CANADA http://www.publicsafety.gc.ca/prg/em/ndms/drr-wg-eng.aspx First cycle of Local HFA (2011-2013) 4/34

Essential 2 Assign a budget for disaster risk reduction and provide incentives for homeowners, low-income families, communities, businesses and public sector to invest in reducing the risks they face. How far does the local government have access to adequate financial resources to carry out risk reduction activities? Level of Progress achieved: 3 Metchosin has successfully accessed grant funding in the past from the Joint Emergency Preparedness Program (JEPP) offered through Public Safety Canada. These grants were used to purchase a satellite phone, SAR trailer, SAR equipment, and tsunami warning signage. The recent termination of the JEPP program has eliminated this funding source as an option for Metchosin, but other governmental grant programs are still available under different programs for the following types of initiatives, and can be viewed online at Civic Info BC : 1. Capacity Building and Integrated Community Sustainability 2. Community Operational Fuel Treatment Program 3. Community Wildfire Protection Plan 4. Fuel Management Prescription Program 5. Risk Management Grant Program 6. Infrastructure Planning Grant Program 7. Community Development Program, Partnerships, Knowledge Building and Workshops 8. Building Canada Fund Metchosin has in the past successfully accessed large grants for infrastructure upgrades, including; the upgrade of the Bilston Bridge, from the Canada-BC Infrastructure Program grant; the upgrade of the Morrow Bridge, from the BC Government Towns for Tomorrow Program; the Planning Grant for the Trails Master Plan, and; the Municipal Insurance Association Grant for risk management. Reference links: > CIVIC INFO BC CANADA http://www.civicinfo.bc.ca/18.asp To what degree does the local government allocate sufficient financial resources to carry out DRR activities, including effective disaster response and recovery? First cycle of Local HFA (2011-2013) 5/34

Metchosin currently allocates approximately 10% of its municipal budget for the Fire Department and the EPG, which include emergency response, recovery, and DRR activities in general. This dollar amount is able to support the level of programs and services provided due to high levels of volunteer involvement across and within all programs. Recent hours donated by volunteer personnel to the Metchosin Fire Department and EPG are as follows: 1. Fire Department: 2010: 9,363 hours, 2011: 12,645 hours, 2012 year to date (May 7): 2,732 hours 2. EPG Personnel: 2010: 5,432 hours, 2011: 6,233 hours, 2012 year to date: 1,078 hours In specific, the programs that these funds and volunteer hours help to maintain include the fire department, SAR, PODS, ECOMM, ESS, and the EOC. In addition, these funds facilitate participation in the LGEPAC, RECAC, and the JDF. What is the scope of financial services (e.g. saving and credit schemes, macro and micro-insurance) available to vulnerable and marginalised households for pre- disaster times? Level of Progress achieved: 3? Agricultural insurance options are important to Metchosin: 2006 Statscan data shows Metchosin has 98 reporting farms; total farm capital of $86,155,347; total farm receipts of $4,879,700; cash wages paid of $ 368,864. The main crops raised are livestock (chickens, hens, sheep and goats) and field crops, among others. This variety and volume of crops demonstrates both an inherent resilience level present in Metchosin due to residents access to locally grown food in the aftermath of a disaster, and also a level of vulnerability to disaster effects. In terms of agricultural insurance, there are several options for farmers in Metchosin. First, the AgriRecovery Program is in effect in Canada, whose objective is to reduce the impact of the business risks faced by Canadian producers. Those who have been affected by disaster may be assisted to help them resume business operations as quickly as possible, or take actions to mitigate the impacts of a disaster, or if needed, facilitate transition into new production where long-term restrictions are placed on a property due to a disease or pest.. Second, AgriInsurance to cover production losses is available. Third, AgriStability insurance is available to cover margin declines. These three programs are provided by the federal agency Agriculture and Agri-food Canada. Locally, the Metchosin Fire Chief is attempting to attain the Fire Underwriters Survey First cycle of Local HFA (2011-2013) 6/34

(FUS) accreditation for alternative water supplies using large diameter hose lay delivered up to 600m from an accredited water source. This accreditation will allow homeowners who do not live near an operable fire hydrant to have their cost of insurance reduced, thus increasing homeowner financial resiliency. The Metchosin Fire Chief hopes to attain this accreditation by utilizing her current resources in conjunction with a focused training regime for her volunteers that will meet the FUS standard. Reference links: > AGRICULTURE IN BRIEF http://www.al.gov.bc.ca/resmgmt/sf/publications.htm#agriculture_in_brief > AGRICULTURE AAFC-AAC 1 http://www4.agr.gc.ca/aafc-aac/display-afficher.do?id=1307022286831&lang=eng > AGRICULTURE AAFC-AAC 2 http://www4.agr.gc.ca/aafc-aac/display-afficher.do?id=1200923862911&lang=eng To what extent are micro finance, cash aid, soft loans, lone guarantees etc available to affected households after disasters to restart livelihoods?? The government of Canada has in place the National Disaster Mitigation Strategy whose mandate is To protect lives and maintain resilient, sustainable communities by fostering DRR as a way of life.. Currently financing options under this program are limited to the Disaster Financial Assistance Arrangements (DFAA), the nowdiscontinued JEPP program, and the Building Canada Fund. There is hope that the program will soon be revamped and include mitigative financing enhancements, potentially for vulnerable populations. In the meantime, in terms of large-scale disaster financial assistance, the government of Canada continues to maintain the DFAA. This program is administered by Public Safety Canada in partnership with the provinces and will ultimately pay for as much as 80 % of recovery costs in certain situations. This recovery aid program is designed to provide recovery assistance in the event of large-scale disasters. Reference links: > PUBLIC SAFETY CANADA - STRATEGY http://www.publicsafety.gc.ca/prg/em/ndms/strategy-eng.aspx#a024 > INFRASTRUCTURE CANADA http://www.infrastructure.gc.ca/prog/bcf-fcc-eng.html First cycle of Local HFA (2011-2013) 7/34

> BC STATS CANADA http://www.bcstats.gov.bc.ca/statisticsbysubject/demography/populationestimates.as px How well established are economic incentives for investing in disaster risk reduction for households and businesses (e.g. reduced insurance premiums for households, tax holidays for businesses)? Level of Progress achieved: 2? Some incentive programs are in place for purposes that align with DRR. One program that meets DRR goals is the Provincial Wood Stove Exchange Program available through the BC Provincial Government, while another is the LiveSmart BC Efficiency Incentive Program. Both of these programs enhance DRR by decreasing dependence on electrical and gas critical infrastructure (for heating) while also contributing to combating climate change-induced disaster risk increases. Reference links: > BC AIR QUALITY http://www.bcairquality.ca/topics/wood-stove-exchangeprogram/individuals.html#program > LIVE SMART BC - REBATES http://www.livesmartbc.ca/rebates To what extent do local business associations, such as chambers of commerce and similar, support efforts of small enterprises for business continuity during and after disasters? Level of Progress achieved: 3? Business owners in Metchosin are very much members of the community, and provide capacity in times of emergency by keeping their doors open for customers in need of food, services and equipment. The types of business located in Metchosin include retail, food services, health care, construction, excavating, arts, and others : First cycle of Local HFA (2011-2013) 8/34

These businesses represent an inherent social capital and response and recovery capacity present in the community. This social capital is organized under the umbrella of the WestShore Chamber of Commerce, which is a volunteer, not-for-profit organization that exists to promote business and economic growth, advocate on behalf of local business, and participate in enriching the community. This chamber serves the five different municipalities of Metchosin, Colwood, Highlands, Langford, and View Royal. One of the exciting initiatives that this chamber engages in is the WestShore Healthy Communities Initiative, which aims to; change behavior in a positive way and advocate for values-based decision making in relation to climate change and; help Westshore communities build healthy and sustainable communities Resources are also available to help give business leaders in Metchosin tools to increase their resilience to disaster. One such resource is the Emergency Preparedness for Industry and Commerce Council (EPICC), which is a non-profit government-endorsed agency whose mandate is to lead businesses in preparing to survive a disaster. Other resources available to contribute to business continuity can be found on Public Safety Canada s website, and also on the EMBC website. Reference links: > METCHOSIN BUSINESS http://www.metchosin.org/business/index.html > WESTSHORE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE http://www.westshore.bc.ca/chamber.php > CLIMATE ACTION CANADA http://www.climateaction.ca/healthy-communities.php > EPIC 1 http://www.epicc.org/default.aspx?menuid=492 > EPIC 2 http://www.epicc.org/showcontent.aspx?menuid=494 > PUBLIC SAFETY PROGRAMS http://www.publicsafety.gc.ca/prg/em/gds/bcp-eng.aspx#a03 > EPIC 2 - PDF http://www.epicc.org/uploadfiles/documents/victoria%20seminar%202010/embc%20 -%20EPICC%20Seminar%20Sept%202010.pdf First cycle of Local HFA (2011-2013) 9/34

Essential 3 Maintain up-to-date data on hazards and vulnerabilities, prepare risk assessments and use these as the basis for urban development plans and decisions. Ensure that this information and the plans for your city's resilience are readily available to the public and fully discussed with them. To what degree does the local government conducted thorough disaster risk assessments for key vulnerable development sectors in your local authority? Hazards are identified in the Emergency Plan. There is also a Provincial Emergency Program (PEP) Risk Profile on hand. This is a risk priority matrix that gives an indication of threat level for selected hazards. This assessment tool has identified wildfire as the hazard of greatest concern in Metchosin. Other low-risk hazards are of a regional concern. The Federal and Provincial governments assess these. For example, Natural Resources Canada has produced a map of "Tsunami Hazard Zones for Southwestern British Columbia" which indicates an intermediate tsunami run up potential (1-5 m) for the Juan de Fuca Strait. At the provincial level, EMBC ranks earthquakes among the most severe hazards threatening Metchosin, as the region lies over the active Cascadia subduction zone. Examples of low risk hazards include pandemic and terrorism. Reference links: > PEP http://www.pep.bc.ca/hrva/toolkit.html > NR CAN http://atlas.nrcan.gc.ca/site/english/maps/environment/naturalhazards/tsunami/fig19_t sunami_hazard_zones.jpg/image_view To what extent are these risk assessments regularly updated, e.g. annually or on a bi-annual basis? First cycle of Local HFA (2011-2013) 10/34

The Emergency Plan is currently under review - updated annually. The most recent PEP Risk Profile is dated March 25, 2012.?Chief Dunlop updates the hazard risk and vulnerability assessment on yearly basis. This annual assessment activity stems from recommendations that were generated in a 2009 consultant s report entitled Metchosin Emergency Preparedness. This document is posted on the municipal website for public viewing. Reference links: > METCHOSIN EMERGENCY PLAN http://metchosin.civicweb.net/documents/documentdisplay.aspx?id=384 How regularly does the local government communicate to the community, information on local hazard trends and risk reduction measures (e.g. using a Risk Communications Plan) including early warnings of likely hazard impact? Metchosin residents are informed of the risk of wildfire seasonally, with additional messaging as conditions dictate.? Messaging is done by way of a community billboard and advertising in the local newspaper (The Muse); via email and NRP phone tree. There is a new website currently being developed. Metchosin also utilizes provincial programming such as FireSmart Protecting Your Community from Wildfire.?In the past, other communication strategies have been attempted with varying degrees of success. For example, a public workshop on tsunamis was well attended, whereas a workshop on pandemics was not. Metchosin also utilizes outside messaging tools for DRR. For example, there has been community and school involvement in ShakeOut BC, an education program aimed at improving personal safety during an earthquake, Post-Earthquake House demonstration presentation provided for municipal viewing and information as well as monthly DDR information sessions through the NRP. Early warning systems are in place for Metchosin residents. For example, the provincial tsunami notification plan has provisions in place. Depending on the location of the triggering event, tsunami warnings can vary from a few minutes to several hours. Advanced notification programs are in place to provide local warning systems. For example, Chief Dunlop has a system to email & text message warnings to residents. Warning systems will be discussed further under Essential #9. First cycle of Local HFA (2011-2013) 11/34

Reference links: > FIRE SMART http://www.pssg.gov.bc.ca/firecom/pdf/homeowner-firesmart.pdf > SHAKE OUT BC http://www.shakeoutbc.ca/contact_us.php?site=shakeoutbc How well are local government risk assessments linked to, and supportive of, risk assessments from neighbouring local authorities and state or provincial government risk management plans? Level of Progress achieved: 3 The Capital Regional District (CRD) provides support to area municipalities to improve emergency preparedness within the region. Local emergency program coordinators meet on a monthly basis to discuss pertinent issues, including DRR. These meetings are also attended by representatives from EMBC and the CDR.? Metchosin also works closely with the neighbouring JDF & Sooke Emergency programs organizing educational and DRR planning opportunities. Joint agreements and exercises in place. Reference links: > CRD JDF REGIONAL SERVICES http://www.crd.bc.ca/emergency/regionalservices/coordination.htm? How well are disaster risk assessments incorporated into all relevant local development planning on a consistent basis? Metchosin municipal council has an "Emergency Program Committee" which is involved in decision processes that relate to local development planning. Public input is welcomed throughout this process as is evidenced by a 2011 recruitment notice, inviting citizens to join the Emergency Program Committee. An example of the committee s work is providing input into the design and location of driveways to allow First cycle of Local HFA (2011-2013) 12/34

for efficient fire response. The "Emergency Program Committee" works closely with the Zoning and Land-Use Planning Committee. The latter will be discussed further under Essential #6 Reference links: > EMERGENCY PROGRAM COMMITTEE http://www.district.metchosin.bc.ca/siteengine/activepage.asp?newsid=37? First cycle of Local HFA (2011-2013) 13/34

Essential 4 Invest in and maintain critical infrastructure that reduces risk, such as flood drainage, adjusted where needed to cope with climate change. How far do land use policies and planning regulations for housing and development infrastructure take current and projected disaster risk (including climate related risks) into account? Level of Progress achieved: 3 Housing Communication Transportation Energy No No No No The Metchosin Zoning and Land-Use Planning Committee have a clear understanding of the hazards faced by the community and recognize that an interface-fire is their greatest threat. Almost the entire area is zoned as residential of one type or another. The Land-Use planning committee has the difficult task of balancing potential safety concerns related to the several 10-acre wooded residential lots with owners' desires to live surrounded by trees. There is also the environmental conservation element to consider when attempting mitigating of wildfire threat. Enforcement of building regulations is respectful of the community and its members and does not invasively look for violations in previously built structures. However new buildings must comply with by-law standards in order to be approved. Violations of by-law standards are investigated and minor variances are dealt with by the Board of Variances, while major issues are brought before the Town Council How adequately are critical public facilities and infrastructure located in high risk areas assessed for all hazard risks and safety? First cycle of Local HFA (2011-2013) 14/34

Metchosin has no major Critical Infrastructure located in what would be classified as "high-risk areas". The main identified hazard-risks faced by Metchosin are wildfire, tsunami, and earthquake. However, the most pressing of these is the threat of an interface fire in the wooded residential area known as Uplands, an area where a number of large homes are particularly vulnerable. Because wildfire is recognized as the chief hazard, Metchosin s water mains, crucial to fighting fire, are arguably the most important Critical Infrastructure system. The Fire Chief and Town Councilor for Zoning and Land-Use Planning recognize the need to protect and continually expand the water-main system and are active in informing and lobbying the CRD to maintain flow rates above fire flow standards. How adequate are the measures that are being undertaken to protect critical public facilities and infrastructure from damage during disasters? Based on conversations with Metchosin s Fire Chief, the emergency services seem to have a clear understanding of the hazards faced by the community. The main piece of Critical Infrastructure (the water supply system) essential to fighting the greatest risk, an interface fire, is being expanded at planned intervals, and is gradually being upgraded and hardened by the CRD. Although B.C hydro lines are beyond the district s direct control, in the event of temporary hydro loss, the effect is mitigated by a high percentage of individual generator-ownership. Private properties not connected to the CRD water-main have their own wells. The fire hall s apparatus bay has been seismically upgraded. Morrow Bridge on Kangaroo Road was recently upgraded strengthening the link between the two primary roads, Sooke and Rocky Point, as well as redundancy of egress and access. First cycle of Local HFA (2011-2013) 15/34

Essential 5 Assess the safety of all schools and health facilities and upgrade these as necessary. To what extent have local schools, hospitals and health facilities received special attention for "all hazard" risk assessments in your local authority? Schools Hospitals/ health facilities Yes No? Hans Helgesen Elementary Specific assessments have not been undertaken within a recent time frame. The school district does have an emergency policy that uses an "all hazards" risk approach for assessment, but this district wide, and not specifically school-to-school. The expectation is that individual schools will build on that for their own emergency plans. West Mont Montessori School Though West Mont Montessori is a private facility, the Fire Chief conducts annual inspections. The school consists of six portables assessed to be resilient to all hazards, and two other fixed structures. A new gymnasium was recently constructed and is built to the latest building codes and standards for earthquake protection. There is one building that is constructed using old materials including cinder blocks which administration assessed could be at risk in the event of an earthquake. Lester B. Pearson International School Even though Lester B. Pearson International School is a private facility the Fire Chief conducts annual inspections. The school consists of numerous classroom and residential buildings built in the 1970 s and 80 s primarily of wooden construction including cedar shingle roofs. The school is currently conducting the Campus Renewal Project, which includes updating of facilities to modern standards using FireSmart practices and retrofitting fire suppression systems. There are no hospitals/health facilities in the District of Metchosin How safe are all main schools, hospitals and health facilities from disasters so that they have the ability to remain operational during emergencies? First cycle of Local HFA (2011-2013) 16/34

Schools Hospitals/ health facilities Yes No Hans Helgesen Elementary Hans Helgesen itself is a new and built using the latest building codes for earthquake protection. School board direction is to have supplies in place to sustain students and staff for 72 hours. West Mont Montessori School On the property, there is a 40ft container stocked with supplies to care for the student body and faculty for a minimum of 72 hours. The school also has a generator capable of providing basic power needs. It was assessed that the schools should be grouped by risk category, particularly in the lens of West Mont s more favorable position as compared to Lester B. Pearson. Lester B. Pearson International School Given the remote and isolated location of the school, it is very self-sufficient. The combination of physical, procedural and training mitigation strategies in place at the school would find the school operational 7 days post disaster, the point at which there on hand supply of emergency rations would run out. With on-site water supply and power generation the school is able to function for long periods without outside assistance. This concept is often put to the test during winter storm season where power outages and road closures are somewhat common. Recently the school was without outside power for four days without impact. The school has emergency communication capabilities in the form of commercial short wave radio and an iridium satellite phone, allowing them to maintain contact with outside agencies. Of note, at one of their sister schools, all the student information is on file and in the event of a major disaster parents would be notified. One area of concern is the placement of the school in a wildfire interface, recognizing this; they have a road and water evacuation plan using school assets. To what degree do local government or other levels of government have special programs in place to regularly assess schools, hospitals and health facilities for maintenance, compliance with building codes, general safety, weather-related risks etc.? Level of Progress achieved: 3 Schools Yes First cycle of Local HFA (2011-2013) 17/34

Hospitals/ health facilities No Hans Helgesen Elementary Beyond building inspections for new construction there are no inspections beyond the annual Fire Inspection conducted by Metchosin Fire Department.? West Mont Montessori School There are currently no extra programs in place beyond the annual visits from the Fire Chief. New construction such as the new gymnasium, were all built to code and inspected by appropriate authorities. Lester B. Pearson International School There are currently no extra programs in place beyond the annual visits from the Fire Chief. All refurbishments and new construction in the Campus Renewal Project will be to the latest code standards and of note, cedar roofing will be replaced by aluminum.? How far are regular disaster preparedness drills undertaken in schools, hospitals and health facilities? Schools Hospitals/ health facilities Yes No Hans Helgesen Elementary Schools themselves undergo drills and training annually: six fire drills, one earthquake drill, and one lockdown drill. The schools is proficient in evacuating their buildings. Each of these drills are debriefed, and any deficiencies are identified. In addition, the annual BC Shake-Out has been adopted as a district wide event which Hans Helgesen participates regularly. West Mont Montessori School The school has a policy of conducting monthly fire drills though in practice typically occurs 4-5 times annually. The school also participates in the annual BC Shake-Out and other local programs. The facility is all standard first aid qualified and four of the staff has Rapid Assessment Training for building safety. An area of concern is parent involvement and interest in emergency preparedness in the school and at home, in spite of multiple communication strategies, many parents remain apathetic. Lester B. Pearson International School? The school has a very robust and active program for drills and training. Three drills are scheduled a semester, one during school hours, another in the evening and at least one in the early morning before students are awake. All staff and student have some level of first aid training. The student body themselves play an active role in response on campus with a trained first aid team and fire brigade lead by an elected student. This team receives basic training from First cycle of Local HFA (2011-2013) 18/34

Metchosin Fire/Rescue, and would play an accountability role in an emergency event. First cycle of Local HFA (2011-2013) 19/34

Essential 6 Apply and enforce realistic, risk compliant building regulations and land use planning principles. Identify safe land for low-income citizens and develop upgrading of informal settlements, wherever feasible. How well are risk-sensitive land use regulations and building codes, health and safety codes enforced across all development zones and building types? Level of Progress achieved: 3 Building codes are regulated by the Province of British Columbia and several inspections are required in order for new development to proceed. There are strong certification and quality assurance processes in place provincially to ensure that inspections and approvals are transparent and impartial. Provincial law requires that land in specified areas at risk, particularly flood plains and steep slopes, be labeled as Development Permit Areas. Such areas require special assessment to ensure that sites are safe for intended use. The process is open and transparent and work cannot commence until approval is granted. Particular to Metchosin, provincial law does not require that land bordering on forests be zoned as Development Permit Areas, and these zones are developed under normal procedures (see below). District bylaws are enforced on a complaint-driven model. The District investigates all alleged violations once a complaint is received. Voluntary compliance is sought primarily, with fines and court action used when necessary. The small numbers of annual complaints are not seen as sufficient justification for full-time active bylaw enforcement. Furthermore, the citizens of the district are very aware of, and concerned about those regulations that affect their environment and community feel. Wildfire is seen by first responders and district workers to be the biggest hazard threat to the District of Metchosin. The district encourages voluntary action by property owners to clear away vegetation that would act to spread fire. Initiatives such as free pick-up of cleared brush from roadways and through open burn regulations that allow landowners to burn deadwood gathered from their property. However, the complaint-based enforcement model is not guaranteed to discover violations of risk-reduction requirements, especially in the Uplands zones where there is no piped water and dedicated ponds are the primary water source. How strong are existing regulations (e.g. land use plans, building First cycle of Local HFA (2011-2013) 20/34

codes etc) to support disaster risk reduction in your local authority? The municipality has strong building regulations and land use planning processes in place. District staff have identified that the main reason for these processes and regulations are the protection of the environment and a strong community desire to maintain a rural feel. The current development approval processes and zoning procedures contribute to disaster resilience by keeping the District s population spread out and by making it difficult to bring in hazardous industries. The majority of the district is zoned residential with three grandfathered light industrial zones. Rezoning of land requires a public hearings process, mandatory advertisement and signage, and a waiting period to allow for public input before a vote by Council. Everyone we interviewed agreed that community opinion is strongly against re-zoning for other than low-density residential. Any applications for rezoning for heavy industry would generate considerable public opposition. The land use process and community concern for environmental protection stand the community in good stead in terms of reducing the likelihood of soil and water contamination as applications for heavy industry (and possible pollutants) are unlikely to be approved. In a similar manner, applications for variances to zoning use must be approved by a Variance Board, composed of volunteers from the community, before they can be approved, with variances greater than 40% requiring an open vote by District Council. All other approvals are the responsibility of the Approvals Officer, currently the Chief Administrative Officer, as a technocratic process. Decisions by the Approvals Officer, the Variance Board or the Council may be heard in a provincial court if the process did not follow legal procedures. As mentioned above, Development Permit Areas are established by the District in accordance with Provincial law and are subject to mandatory examination to ensure safety.? First cycle of Local HFA (2011-2013) 21/34

Essential 7 Ensure education programmes & training on disaster risk reduction are in place in schools and communities. How regularly does the local government conduct awarenessbuilding or education programs on DRR and disaster preparedness for local communities? Programs include cultural diversity issues Programs are sensitive to gender perspectives Yes No? Metchosin engages in events such as the Great BC Shake Out, Emergency Preparedness Week and Metchosin Days. All these events have topics concerning disaster risk reduction, including the Junior Firefighting Challenge, volunteer recognition and displays of Emergency Preparedness kits at Metchosin Day. In addition, there are annual fire inspections of community buildings, and the local fire service participates in Fire Safety Week. The Emergency Social Services also undertakes advertised supplemental programs. Through the Emergency Plan, there are provisions for training in first aid, electrical and gas familiarization, rapid damage assessment and chainsaw awareness. Coming soon is a course on large animal evacuation. There are regular communications to the community through the Town website, flyers distributed regularly to every household and usually two articles per edition in The Muse, the local newspaper. Topics in the flyers and articles include vulnerable communities and how to prepare for emergencies and disasters, evacuations (including animal) and neighborhood response programs (PODS). The Community Centre is an active resource used to convey materials and information related to disaster preparedness targeted to seniors; this has included the Vancouver Island Health Authority (VIHA) provision of flu shots during the H1N1 outbreaks. To what extent does the local government provide training in risk reduction for local officials and community leaders? First cycle of Local HFA (2011-2013) 22/34

EMBC Core Training is provided through the auspices of the Emergency Preparedness plan for local officials. Chief Dunlop and several staff have been trained to deliver curriculum in ESS, EOC and Incident Command System (ICS) 100 to not only municipal staff, but political groups and any other interested parties. This is at no cost to Metchosin. Metchosin participates annually in the Great BC Shake Out and, if alerted to a tsunami anywhere in the world that may affect North America, will activate its EOC as a training measure, even if Metchosin is not believed to be in any direct danger. Metchosin firefighters undergo significant training in a number of areas. These include, on a weekly basis, any needed upgrades to certifications, medical and firefighting training. Metchosin also is engaged in mutual aid agreements with several neighbouring communities, such as Sooke, East Sooke, Langford and Otter Point, and engage in some sort of cross training every six weeks. These include structural firefighting support and tender shuttle training (whereby, for a rural community, without municipal water with which to fight fires, they must be able to co-ordinate their water tenders in order to maintain capacities of 250 gallons/minute sustained over three hours). Further to this, first aid, electrical and gas awareness, rapid damage assessment, chainsaw and, large animal evacuation is available to the public as required. Many Sooke School District 62 principals have had "Rapid Damage Assessment" training, while most staff are starting ICS 100. Copies of site plans and manuals lay out individual staff responsibilities. Schools undergo six fire drills, one earthquake drill, and one lockdown drill annually, for which all are debriefed and any deficiencies are identified and learning applied. Lester Pearson College conducts several all hazards drills at various times of day per semester, including overnight (unannounced). To what degree do local schools and colleges include courses, education or training in disaster risk reduction (including climate related risks) as part of the education curriculum? Curriculum exists for disaster risk reduction within Sooke School District 62. It is being considered for all levels but presently is offered at the grade eight levels only. General discussions with respect to preparations and actions are held with all students, First cycle of Local HFA (2011-2013) 23/34

especially as they relate to previously mentioned drills. In addition, staff undertake debriefing after each drill to determine lessons learned and informed practices. Teachers receive training and information regarding what to do in case of a disaster, this ensures that students will be directed appropriately in case of an incident. Thus, while a specific curriculum may not be part of instruction to Helgesen students, the staff are appropriately trained and prepared. Lester Pearson College (LPC) is a twoyear pre-university college for 200 students from over 100 countries (UWC, Pearson College, n.d.) located on seventy-five acres of forestland southwest of Metchosin. Its students are highly trained in first aid, and sit on emergency committees or partake in a student fire service (which includes training on setting and connecting LPC s contained fire hose system). How aware are citizens of evacuation plans or drills for evacuations when necessary? Level of Progress achieved: 3 Education and information on dedicated evacuation routes and plans are provided on a regular basis through a variety of resources such as email notifications, social medial, local newspaper articles, flyers, educational meetings and brochures. The citizens of Metchosin tend to be very self-reliant and self-sufficient, as such there is limited demand or understanding of need for this information. Awareness and concern from citizens significantly heightens with local earthquake and tsunami activity. The Metchosin Emergency Program needs to utilize this critical awareness time and promote safety procedures, evacuation plans and preparedness. First cycle of Local HFA (2011-2013) 24/34

Essential 8 Protect ecosystems and natural buffers to mitigate floods, storm surges and other hazards to which your city may be vulnerable. Adapt to climate change by building on good risk reduction practices. How well integrated are local government DRR policies, strategies and implementation plans with existing environmental development and natural resource management plans? Protecting ecosystems is clearly a priority within the community of Metchosin. This is evidenced by the 'environmental policies' outlined in the "Official Community Plan". Formal DRR policies do not exist, however, environmental management activities are well aligned with risk mitigation. For example, grassroots efforts to eradicate invasive plant species also reduce the risk of wildfire. Metchosin has other environmental policies that offer potential benefits in the area of DRR. These include provisions for the protection of: water quality, coastlines, riparian wetlands, forests and wildlife habitat. Another key environmental issue identified in the community plan addresses climate change. This is an important issue in DRR as well.?? To what degree does the local government support the restoration, protection and sustainable management of ecosystems services? Forests Coastal zones Wetlands Water resources Yes Yes Yes Yes First cycle of Local HFA (2011-2013) 25/34

River basins Fisheries Yes No As mentioned previously, the community plan outlines the policy objectives pertaining to ecological protection. Metchosin's municipal council has an Environmental Advisory Select Committee to carry out the work. This committee promotes the importance of ecological sustainability in municipal decision-making. The scope of the committee is broad, encompassing reactive and proactive measures. For example, a current policy initiative involves the development of a tree protection bylaw for rare species. A different approach is evident in the Talk and Walk program, which consists of a series of guided hikes that raise community awareness of the importance of protecting ecosystems. This volunteer-driven group also conducts field-work. For example, there is an active volunteer program in Devonian Regional Park that receives municipal support for tree-planting efforts. Volunteers also conduct wildlife inventories that provide key information to support ongoing monitoring of ecosystem health.? How much do civil society organizations and citizens participate in the restoration, protection and sustainable management of ecosystems services? The Metchosin Foundation is a charitable organization that aims to protect ecosystems. This group encourages community members to consider ecological protection as part of estate planning. They also assist landowners in placing conservation covenants on private property. A covenant ensures that the site remains a functioning habitat should the ownership change. How much does the private sector participate in the implementation of environmental and ecosystems management plans in your local authority? Level of Progress achieved: 2 First cycle of Local HFA (2011-2013) 26/34

? The private sector in Metchosin is eclectic and diverse. There are numerous artists/musicians/writers as well as those providing professional services and working in trades. The business community is described as engaged and supportive. Yet, participation is largely reactive. In keeping with the community's rural heritage and culture, the most active participation tends to be associated with a focusing event.? First cycle of Local HFA (2011-2013) 27/34

Essential 9 Install early warning systems and emergency management capacities in your city and hold regular public preparedness drills. To what degree do local institutions have access to financial reserves to support effective disaster response and early recovery? The municipal budget supports DRR activities that are in place in Metchosin, such as programs in first aid training, electrical and gas familiarization training, rapid damage assessment and chainsaw training. Through EMBC and Public Safety Canada, Metchosin has access to provincial disaster relief funds, for supporting their EOC and replacing essential public services and critical infrastructure. Individual households, businesses and farms also have access to such relief funding. There are no low income housing projects located in Metchosin, therefore there is no immediate need for such sponsored programs. The Grant in Aid program exists to support individuals' and businesses needs To what extent are early warning centres established, adequately staffed (or on-call personnel) and well resourced (power back ups, equipment redundancy etc) at all times? Metchosin has an effective siren to alert volunteers to respond a fire. Such a system is a significant positive. The system, when required, is triggered and activated by Fire Chief or an identified back-up, who are available 24/7/365. EMBC maintain text, phone and e-mail capabilities to alert Chief Dunlop. Chief Dunlop has an extensive phone/email contact list, through which she initiates contact to all registered users. Chief Dunlop also utilizes social media on both Twitter and Facebook - through her dual roles as Fire Chief and Head of Emergency Management - through which applicable information is disseminated. Chief Dunlop makes good use of media First cycle of Local HFA (2011-2013) 28/34

contacts, both within Metchosin itself and the CRD. Press releases are issued as required. Early warning for significant incidents is based on the Provincial Emergency Notification System (PENS), which is administered by the Provincial Government. This system provides threat warnings to hazards such as tsunamis, wind alerts, road closures, power outages, fires and all other hazards. An established notification tree provides linkage directly to key organizations (RCMP/Fire Department/Town Office/etc.) As a provincial system, PENS is operated and maintained on the behalf of the community. In addition, the District of Metchosin has promoted the OneCallNow program initiated for imminent threat. This system provided direct phone calls to those who have signed up for the system. As Chief Dunlop is on a contact list through EMBC and various geological and weather based organizations, she is able to disseminate further information to her contact list as necessary. These information sources include the EMBC Hotline, Weathernet and other apps. This system works well as it is used up to 4-5 times a week for small scale events, and 2-3 times a year for larger ones. How much do warning systems allow for adequate community participation? As previously indicated, several types of early warning "systems" are evident in Metchosin. While some of these might not fit the "traditional" model expected in many communities, for Metchosin it works well. This is in no small part due to the level of overall community engagement. Further, the commitment of Chief Dunlop to the wellbeing of her community is almost unprecedented! With the level of contacts that she has, and the understanding of having a backup in place, should she not be available, the level to which residents of Metchosin can benefit from an early warning is ahead of most communities of similar size. To what extent does the local government have an emergency operations centre (EOC) and/or an emergency communication system? First cycle of Local HFA (2011-2013) 29/34