“When my RM posted a position for Municipal Emergency Coordinator, I applied. I had no experience as a MEC but had a lot of coordinating experience. Upon being hired I was handed an outdated binder and an empty coffee cup. Where do I begin?Eighteen months into the position, I have organized a team of 12 to work with me and gathered a huge community volunteer base. I updated the binder, did a hazard analysis, vulnerability assessment, conducted table top exercises, studied Z1600, formed a LERCG, attended many workshops and have taken 4 on-line courses. I also chose to become involved with MAMEC, Manitoba Association for Municipal Emergency Coordinators.With all the requirements of being a “qualified” MEC making this position very difficult for someone such as myself to attain, we need the support of our peers. Being a MEC is a demanding job and appears to be moving in the direction of a full-time “professional” position. Unfortunately, a lot of small rural municipalities do not have the professional or experienced people to fill the empty MEC positions. Nor do they have the funds to finance all the regulated requirements being asked to be completed by the MEC’s. The newly formed MAMEC is a place for MEC’s to network, collaborate, and mentor each other to enhance our abilities to develop our skills and knowledge in our position.I have been very fortunate to have a CAO that secured an outside resource to assist with my training and guidance for myself and my team. However, as a new MEC, it goes a long way knowing that there is a support system ready and able to relied upon for help. Although no amount of training and education can replace the experience of handling a disaster it is nice to know there is a support system available whether it is from other municipality MEC’s, outside resources or EMO.”
–Cathy Dowbyhuz – Board of Directors & MEC for the R.M of Whitemouth