Departments > Victoria Emergency Management Agency > Volunteer With Us
Why volunteer?
The Victoria Emergency Management Agency (VEMA) is the City of Victoria's resource for helping the community to be "emergency prepared".
When you volunteer with VEMA, you join a dedicated team of individuals that serves Victoria citizens in the event of an emergency. You also learn new skills and information, work behind the scenes, meet new friends, and gain valuable experience. All training is provided free of charge.
As a VEMA volunteer, you are part of the action in an emergency, whether it's participating in search and rescue, assisting evacuees, providing radio communications support, or working in our Emergency Operation Centre. You can also play an important role in educating the community on what it will take to cope for three days or more in the event of a disaster.
What do volunteers do?
There is a wide variety of volunteer opportunities within the Victoria Emergency Management Agency.
- Evacuee Assistance:
This group is tasked with assisting displaced residents who have been evacuated from their homes due to a fire or other emergency. Volunteers learn how to set up and staff a Reception Centre and provide comfort and support to evacuees. Volunteers meet on the third Wednesday evening of each month.
- Auxiliary Communications Service:
This team is a perfect fit for those who have an interest in radio and/or computer technologies. The Auxiliary Communications team provides communications back-up to the City of Victoria in large scale emergencies and disasters. The team meets at least one Wednesday evening each month - learn more.
- Public Preparedness/Neighbourhood Program:
If you enjoy public speaking and organizing your community to action, then this team is for you. Some volunteers give talks on emergency preparedness and provide information at community events, while others focus on increasing awareness and emergency preparedness in their own neighbourhoods. The time commitment is approximately four hours a month.
- Urban Search and Rescue (USAR Victoria):
This team of volunteers must be ready to search for and rescue people trapped in partially collapsed buildings in Victoria. Volunteers meet on the second Tuesday evening of the month and the fourth weekend.
- Emergency Operations Centre:
This team provides much needed behind-the-scenes support to those working in the City's Emergency Operation Centre (EOC). You may be involved with ensuring the EOC is equipped with the necessary supplies and is ready for use on a moment's notice, or assist EOC staff in an emergency. Volunteers meet about once a month.
What is VEMA looking for in a volunteer?
VEMA volunteers need to be reliable team players, able to take direction, and have the ability to work under pressure. The time commitment varies depending on the team. Volunteers must be 19 years of age or older and undergo an annual criminal record check.
How do I apply to be a volunteer?
E-mail us or call (250) 920-3373. We would be happy to discuss the best volunteer opportunity for you.
To learn more about VEMA, click here.
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