From 2pm – 4pm this Saturday, the doors to Loburn School Hall will open to residents who are eager to learn more about what a Community Emergency Hub is and what to do when it is activated.

Council Civil Defence staff and volunteers will be there to talk with residents about how to prepare locally for the next large scale natural disaster. There will also be a free sausage sizzle and a “shaky house” earthquake simulator on site.

Council Emergency Management Advisor Dean Eades said anyone from the Loburn community will have something to contribute to their Community Emergency Hub.

“Whether that’s leading a shift or organising the needs and offers boards, to making cups of tea and making people feel safe and welcome – the wealth of skills in our communities is fantastic.

“People will be able to learn about the role of a Community Emergency Hub and contribute to the conversation by sharing their skills and knowledge that will ultimately benefit the community’s response.”

Council has been working with communities across the District to establish Community Emergency Hubs and enable locals to plan for and act in the event of a Civil Defence emergency. There are already hubs set up in Silverstream at The Sterling, in the Cust Community Centre and at the Pegasus Community Centre.

A Community Emergency Hub differs from a Civil Defence Centre in that it’s initially one hundred percent spontaneous and community led. Whereas a Civil Defence Centre is set up at the request of Council’s Emergency Operation Centre and run by both trained volunteers and Council staff.

Residents can expect to see more Community Emergency Hubs open up across the District in the near future.

If you’re interested in getting involved in your local Community Emergency Hub or want to establish one for your community, contact dean.eades@wmk.govt.nz