British Columbia has declared a provincial state of emergency to allow for the preservation of supply chains delivering groceries and other essential items to the province during the COVID-19 pandemic. Public Safety Minister Mike Farnworth made the declaration Wednesday, saying the proclamation ensures federal, provincial and local resources are delivered in a quick, joint, “co-ordinated way” to protect British Columbians during the outbreak.

“This is an all-hands-on-deck approach,” said Farnworth.

Declaring a state of emergency allows the province to enact any provincial emergency measures needed to respond or lessen the impact of an emergency situation. On Wednesday, Farnworth said that includes securing the critical supply chains to ensure British Columbians continue to have access to essential goods and services and that any infrastructure needed for the government response to COVID-19 is readily available.

The state of emergency is initially in effect for 14 days, but can be extended if need be.

The pandemic has created an unprecedented economic slowdown and health care response in B.C. Public spaces, retailers, restaurants and other community hubs have temporarily shut down or scaled back as business and health leaders urge people to stay home and avoid crowds to slow the spread of the novel coronavirus.

The provincewide state of emergency follows Tuesday’s declaration of a public health emergency.

Farnworth said his announcement Wednesday gives the province further licence to support B.C. provincial health officer Dr. Bonnie Henry and health-care officials in their response to COVID-19.