Emergency preparedness is taking an inclusive turn in Whakatāne, with the district’s first Emergency Services Open Day set to spotlight accessibility and disability inclusion.
Hosted by Whakatāne District Council in partnership with emergency services and community groups, the event will run from 10am to 2pm on November 8, at Whakatāne High School.
Council emergency management officer John Eruera said the event will shine a spotlight on the disability and accessibility community, recognising their vital role in emergency preparedness.
Fire and Emergency New Zealand demonstrating how to blast the hoses. Photo / Supplied
Hato Hone St John paramedic and operations manager Lindsay Sattler added: “Everyone has a part to play in keeping our district safe.”
The Emergency Services Open Day will feature:
Live demonstrations and interactive displays from emergency services
Accessibility and disability-focused stalls
Food trucks
MC-led stage activities, including DJ No Hands, and Circability
An event passport competition to encourage engagement
Opportunities to connect with local emergency responders and community groups
“This event is about building understanding, confidence, and collaboration, and making sure our disability and accessibility communities are front and centre in our emergency planning,” Disabilities Resource Centre Trust information services co-ordinator Naomi Freeman said.
Circability’s fun-filled events are for everyone: a cross section of disability, culture and ages. Photo / Supplied
Entry is free, with a gold coin koha supporting Hospice Eastern Bay of Plenty.
The event is supported by a wide range of partners, including Disabilities Resource Centre Trust, NZ Police, Fire and Emergency New Zealand, Hato Hone St John, Neighbourhood Support, Media Bay of Plenty, Whakatāne District Council, Toi Moana Bay of Plenty Regional Council, Emergency Management Bay of Plenty, and community groups.
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