Maple Ridge, B.C., Sept. 28, 2026 — The City of Maple Ridge is inviting residents to take a practical step toward earthquake preparedness by attending a new, free workshop series: Be Earthquake Ready.
Held before and after the annual Great BC ShakeOut on Thursday, Oct. 15, the workshop will help residents prepare for an earthquake before it happens. Hosted by the City’s Emergency Program, the workshops build on the Be Emergency Ready workshops offered over the past 18 months.
Participants will learn about:
- Earthquake risk in British Columbia
- What to do during and immediately after an earthquake
- How to make an emergency plan for your household
- What to include in an emergency kit
- Simple steps to help keep your home and family safer
“Earthquakes can happen without warning, but there are practical things everyone can do now to be better prepared,” said Edd Bennett, Emergency Program Manager for the City of Maple Ridge. “These workshops will help residents understand the risks, make a plan and build the confidence to act when it matters.”
Workshop Schedule
All sessions will be held in the Fraser Room at the Public Library, 22470 Dewdney Trunk Rd.
- Monday Oct. 5, 1:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m.
- Monday, Oct. 26, 1:00 p.m. and 6:00 pm.
Workshops are free but registration is required at MapleRidge.ca/EmergencyReadiness.
Residents are also encouraged to take part in the Great BC ShakeOut on October 15 at 10:15 a.m. by practising Drop, Cover and Hold On with their family, workplace, school or community group at shakeoutbc.ca.
Stay Informed with Alert Maple Ridge
The City will also conduct a test of its emergency alert system Alertable. Starting Oct. 1, City-issued emergency alerts and instructions will be delivered through the Alertable app. Residents and businesses are encouraged to sign up now to receive alerts about fires, floods, earthquakes, severe weather, evacuation notices and other hazards at MapleRidge.ca/Alert.
Be Prepared for Emergencies of All Kinds
Residents can prepare for a range of emergencies by taking a few simple steps:
- Know the Risks – View more information at preparedbc.ca
- Make a Plan – Create a family emergency plan, including arrangements for pets and livestock.
- Gather Supplies – Ensure you have enough supplies to last 72 hours to one week.
The City’s Emergency Readiness Program works year-round to reduce risk, enhance response capabilities, and support community resilience through public education, planning, training, and coordination with regional and provincial partners.
For more information on emergency readiness, contact EmergencyProgram@MapleRidge.ca.