Year in Review: Point Roberts Emergency Preparedness

In 2022, Point Roberts Emergency Preparedness (PREP) continued to fulfill its mission to help the community and its residents to be better prepared and more self-sufficient in the face of natural disasters and emergencies. To that end, 15 PREP members attended an emergency training session provided in April by the local fire department.

With other PNW emergency groups, on June 18, PREP rallied 30 local volunteers for Thunder Run, a test of the West Coast General Aviation Response Plan, a coordinated effort to fly resources into damaged areas and evacuate injured or displaced persons in the event of a catastrophic earthquake. Via seaplane, 800 pounds of food was received for the local food bank.

In March, along with the local fire department, PREP coordinated assessments by county and state wildfire experts who visited with over 50 landowners interested in voluntary measures to reduce wildfire risk on their properties. Email prepgroup17@gmail.com to add your name to a list for future assessments.

Over 350 people attended PREP’s annual Fourth of July Pancake Breakfast fundraiser. An emergency kit raffle was also enthusiastically supported. Thanks to all for your continued generosity!

During an early November electrical power outage, PREP joined with community partners to open the community center to provide meals, warmth and device charging to approximately 150 residents.

In 2023, supported by the local fire department, Washington Military Department and Whatcom County and with funds from FEMA and the Helen and Jose Colton Foundation, PREP will complete its project to equip Point Roberts with a 90-foot communications tower at the firehall.

PREP relies on its volunteers and motto of neighbors helping neighbors. Please join our mailing list, attend our meetings (held the first Tuesday of the month) and take part in training opportunities. Visit prepgroup.org for more information.