'The more the merrier' when disaster breaks out, Charlottetown officials tell partner groups

The City of Charlottetown is working to keep its community partners informed on what happens during emergencies to ensure everything runs as smoothly as possible.

The city's Emergency Measures Organization said it works with about 40 groups who have agreed to help out in situations like major storms or forest fires. That could mean providing space for shelter, for example.

On Thursday, the city held the second of two information sessions at the Charlottetown Fire Department to speak with those community groups about their responsibilities and the procedures in place.

"It's actually to have our partners come together … and also just get a real good understanding of what the Emergency Measures Organization in the city does, and what the expectations are back and forth between the community providers and the city and how they can help each other," said Tim Mamye, the city's fire chief.

There are lots of things to think about during an emergency, said Mamye. Take post-tropical storm Fiona, for instance, which left the entire city without power and some residences in the dark for weeks in the fall of 2022.

Reception centres were set up for those who needed them, and some groups delivered food and provided transportation.

Mamye said this kind of teamwork shows why it's essential to have the basics down before an emergency strikes.

People prepare food at a British Columbia warming centre earlier this winter when frigid temperatures hit the Lower Mainlaind. Food and shelter are among the many community services Charlottetown might need in an emergency. (Ben Nelms/CBC)

"When the emergency happens, everything's going in the direction of trying to actually mitigate that ... as opposed to keeping the business of the city going," he said.

"Knowing what's needed in advance, preparing it and then having it available when you need it" is crucial to reducing people's stress and anxiety when a crisis hits, he added.

Mamye said EMO officials will continue to be in touch with their community partners, including facility visits to ensure the sites are suitable for use.

"It comes down to understanding what you're able to provide and do for your community and what we're able to actually rely on from you and assist you with."

Overall, he said it takes a community to look after the community and that they are consistently looking for more partners — especially near the exterior of the city.

"We have a large city. It's growing every day. The population growth is there," said Mamye.

"Always, the more the merrier."