$30,000 Provincial Investment Enhances Sooke’s Emergency Coordination Capacity

The District of Sooke has been approved for a $30,000 grant to enhance the readiness and resilience of its Emergency Operations Centre (EOC). 

The funding will support: 

• Backup batteries to help maintain critical equipment during power disruptions 
• Satellite communications to provide an alternative when cellular or internet services are unavailable 
• Emergency food and water supplies for extended EOC activations
• Tablets to support mobile communications, information-sharing and coordination 
• An emergency exercise to test procedures, strengthen staff preparedness and identify opportunities for improvement  

The EOC serves as the District’s central coordination point during significant emergencies. When activated, it brings together trained personnel to coordinate information, resources and decisions while supporting emergency responders, community partners and affected residents. 

“Reliable equipment, clear communications and regular training are essential to an effective emergency response,” said Mayor Maja Tait. “This funding will help ensure our Emergency Operations Centre team is prepared to coordinate effectively, even when power or communication systems are disrupted. We appreciate this important investment in Sooke’s emergency preparedness and resilience.”  

The Community Emergency Preparedness Fund is administered by the Union of BC Municipalities and funded by the Province of British Columbia. 

To learn more about the District of Sooke Emergency Management program and how residents can prepare for emergencies, visit sooke.ca/prepare. 

Residents are also encouraged to sign up for the District’s public alert notification system at sooke.ca/alert to receive timely information during local emergencies. 

Related:

• Strengthening emergency operations centres in B.C. (Province of British Columbia2026)