ARES-EMO
Workshop On Saturday March 6, 1999 I attended a workshop at the Emergency Measures Organization headquarters in Toronto. The Provincial Government has set-up an excellent Operations Centre to monitor and direct emergency response to disasters within the province. The group heard from various speakers including the Toronto Social Services Department, Red Cross, local ARES Groups directly involved with the Operations Centre, as well as Operations Centre staff. The main topic was Y2K. The Provincial Government, and the E.M.O. feel; Ontario is ready for Y2K in the utilities sector ( Hydro, water, gas, and telecommunications). There may be a few small interruptions as we roll into 2000. Local communities, pharmacies, clinics, some small business's could also be in some jeopardy if plans for Y2K are not well under way. Abnormal human behaviour (people not doing what they normally do, and hoarding) could also be a major factor in how smoothly everything goes on January 1, 2000. Any matters dealing with International trade etc. may have some real problems. The Middle East (oil), France, Germany, and Japan are not prepared to any extent the way North America is. The crucial time factor for Y2K as far as the E.M.O. is concerned is December 29, 1999 to January 4, 2000. The Operations Centre will be staffed 24/7 during this time period. There will be ARES nets running during this time period as well. Individuals are encouraged at all times to be self sufficient with supplies for a period of three days. This is especially true as we approach January 1, 2000. In the event things do not operate as expected next January, and problems were to persist longer than three days, the Municipal level of Government would become involved with supplies. Watch for details on one or two exercise's to be run with the Red Cross locally. These will be in preparation for Y2K problems, that hopefully will not occur. We are always looking for new volunteers to assist with communications. If If you are interested contact our ARES EC Robert Gissing VE3ZLV at 578-3550 or by e-mail at ares@kwarc.org
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