The Central Saanich Emergency Program, in partnership with the Tsawout (SȾÁUTW̱) and Tsartlip (W̱JOȽEȽP) First Nations, is making every second count thanks to new reflective address signs being installed in both communities.
As of August, addresses for residents of the Nations will be live on emergency response systems for police, fire and ambulance.
The initiative, funded by the Ministry of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness, not only ensures properties have visible addresses, emergency responders will now be able to see updated address information thanks to the data collected and shared with emergency response databases.
The project has already seen major milestones. In Tsartlip First Nation, located in Brentwood Bay, the work is complete: all properties now have reflective address signs, and the data has been fully integrated into emergency systems. In Tsawout First Nation, located in Saanichton, the work is underway with data collection, signage installations, and verifying and enhancing address accuracy.
Prior to the installations, some homes were challenging to identify; now, the addresses are highly visible reflective signs installed roadside. The reflective material is easy to read even in low-light or stormy conditions. This seemingly simple upgrade can make a critical difference during emergencies, where every second counts.
The initiative, which also included distributing resources for emergency grab-and-go bags and sharing wildfire education, has received positive responses from the communities.
Learn more about the program: https://www.centralsaanich.ca/reflectiveaddresssign