An emergency preparedness program scheduled for Nanaimo promises to leave citizens shaken.
The Shakezone earthquake simulator is coming to Nanaimo with an emergency preparedness message.
The visit is part of a joint venture between the city, the Insurance Bureau of Canada, B.C. Earthquake Alliance, Woodgrove Centre and Island Radio to remind residents about the importance of earthquake preparedness.
The Shakezone is a mobile earthquake simulator that gives people a unique opportunity to experience what it is like to live through magnitude 8 earthquake, but in a safe setting.
The Shakezone event happens Saturday (May 28) 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at in the Woodgrove Centre parking lot across from The Bay.
Emergency response agencies will also be on site to provide information on how people can prepare for emergencies.
The event is free, but seating space and time is limited and the chance to ride the simulator is on a first come, first served basis so people are asked to arrive early.
The simulator will make a special visit to Vancouver Island University for students and staff Friday (May 27) when Alison Bird, Natural Resources Canada seismologist, will also give a free presentation for the public about earthquakes on coastal B.C. at Beban Park from 10-11 a.m.
“Being prepared for an emergency is something all residents know they should do and it is often talked about,” Karen Lindsay, Nanaimo emergency program coordinator, said in a press release.
“We hope that this expo and simulator will remind residents that now is the time to take action and get prepared. I hope that we can become the most prepared community on Vancouver Island.”
