Settlement Support helps migrants to be prepared

26 April 2012

New settlers to New Zealand will be able to find out about hazards in Whangarei at a free seminar on Wednesday, 9 May from 5:30pm to 7pm at the Whangarei Migrant Centre, 71 Bank St.

Called ‘Get Ready, Get Thru’ the seminar reinforces the national Civil Defence campaign that urges people to be ready for local disasters so they can get through them.

“Migrants may be well informed about hazards from their home country but not realise what the local risks are here in New Zealand, and how we manage them. While organisations can help in an emergency, individuals also need to protect themselves and their property from the effects of disasters,” says Victoria Randall, Whangarei District Civil Defence Emergency Management Officer.

“Some disasters, like earthquakes, are not as likely to occur in the Whangarei District as they are in some other areas of the country, but others, particularly storms and floods, are more likely. It is important for people to understand what the local risks are and to take steps to protect themselves in the event of an emergency.

Settlement Support Coordinator Ellen Altshuler said all migrants should take the opportunity to be informed about the likely (and unlikely) disasters that can occur in our area. Anyone interested in this important local information is welcome to come along to the seminar.

“This seminar will inform newcomers of the most likely hazards and disasters our region encounters and the practical steps people can take to prepare for, and manage, the effects of disasters Participants will also be given an understanding of our local Civil Defence organisation and their work.

To register or for more information about this seminar, phone 470 3056 or email: ellena@wdc.govt.nz

ENDS

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