The impact of a record-breaking spring snowstorm in Cripple Creek and Victor over March 13-14 brought to light the strengths of communities coming together, as well as identifying weaknesses.

Cripple Creek Mayor Annie Durham decided that with the snow emergency fresh in everyone’s mind, there is no time like the present to initiate plans for improvements to the community’s response to emergencies.

“My observation is that our community was able to mobilize in ways I’ve never seen. Although this community is not huge, it is huge (in its response) when an emergency happens,” Durham said on March 30 at a forum held at the Cripple Creek-Victor High School.

The purpose of the forum was to review lessons learned and provide an information opportunity for the community to become proactive with regards to training and organization. Discussion included not just the impact of the 30-40 inches of snow and power outages, but any number of emergencies that can affect public health and safety including wildfire.

Durham highlighted the areas of response that volunteers are able to assist including shoveling, plowing, welfare checks, animal assistance, medical, communications, supplies and shelter management.

“My goal is longevity. What we can do together as a community. There really is a place for everybody. That is why CERT training can help,” Durham said.