Emergency Disaster Training and First Responders Appreciation in Wingham
During the weekend of October 25-27, 2013 The Salvation Army in Wingham focused efforts on preparing local personnel to assist in the event the community or surrounding area is affected from an unexpected emergency or major disaster, as well as honouring first responders.
The weekend began with training on Friday, October 25th as 22 people attended “Introduction to The Salvation Army Emergency Disaster Services”. The purpose of this course is to introduce participants to The Salvation Army, Emergency Disaster Services and to prepare them for a disaster assignment.
All 22 participants returned on Saturday as training continued with “Disaster Food Service: Handling & Delivery”, a course to prepare Salvation Army personnel to work efficiently and effectively in food services during an emergency or disaster situation.
Knowing that personnel from Wingham had previously assisted with various responses and mock disasters in the area, personnel were eager to learn how they could better assist in times of crisis. “The Salvation Army counts it a privilege to stand shoulder to shoulder with our first responders”, says Perron Goodyear, Divisional Director of Emergency & Disaster Services for the Ontario Great Lakes Division. “While we pray we are not needed, this training will ensure local personnel are ready should our support ever be required in the future.”
To conclude the weekend The Salvation Army Wingham Community Church hosted a “First Responders Appreciation Sunday”. The service focused on giving thanks to local first responders for the work they do every day to keep the community safe. First responder representatives were on hand to accept certificates of appreciation from The Salvation Army.