Mid Canterbury residents are being invited to take part in a survey that will help authorities better manage emergencies in our district.

The survey is being conducted throughout Canterbury from 17 February until 10 March and can be completed online, or by using a QR code, or by picking up a paper version from the Ashburton Library.

All responses are confidential and there is a prize draw for those who complete the survey and wish to enter. The prize is an outdoor readiness pack and there are five up for grabs.

Council Group Manager of Compliance and Development Ian Hyde said the annual preparedness survey was being conducted by Emergency Management Canterbury and would help gauge the community’s awareness of potential civil defence emergencies and hazards.

“It’s also designed to measure preparedness and resilience levels of residents to an emergency and get a clear idea of the emergency communication channels that community members prefer to use.”

The survey takes about 10 minutes to complete and will be promoted online around Canterbury.

Questions are designed to find out how prepared households currently are and where they access trusted information.

Mr Hyde said the survey was also a great prompt for residents to think about the hazards and emergencies that might affect them.

“Maybe it’s time to review your own emergency preparedness plans, because your living circumstances have changed or you have moved house.

“Being prepared is one of the most beneficial things you can do for your family.”

You can take the survey at cdemcanterbury.govt.nz/survey