We've heard it too many times - the big one is coming.
But it turns out cyclists may be the first people saving the day after an earthquake hits the Capital Region.
"Cyclists may be able to access roads, pathways and bridges that vehicles can’t, to help move people, information and materials from one location to another," said Rob Johns, City of Victoria emergency coordinator.
To demonstrate just how important two-wheeled travel can be in a disaster response, the City of Victoria and the Greater Victoria Cycling Coalition are partnering to present the Inaugural Tour de Disaster -- Cyclist Emergency and Disaster Response Rally on July 27 from 9 a.m. to noon.
Part cycling rally, part emergency exercise, the Tour de Disaster will include up to 40 cyclists working their way through a series of tasks such as moving supplies, searching for lost individuals and conducting damage assessments within a local neighbourhood – all while navigating through a simulated damaged or congested transportation system.
The Tour de Disaster will start and end at the Topaz Park parking lot located off Glasgow Street.
The event will also serve as an emergency communications exercise for Victoria Emergency Management Agency volunteers.
Pre-register for this free event before July 23. For more information, go online to PrepareVictoria.ca or gvcc.bc.ca.