Emergency Preparedness Week is a national awareness initiative that has taken place annually since 1996. It is a collaborative event undertaken by provincial and territorial emergency management organizations supporting activities at the local level, in concert with Public Safety Canada and partners. EP Week encourages Canadians to take three simple steps to become better prepared to face a range of emergencies:

Step 1

Know the Risks
Know the hazards/risks in your area and how to be prepared. In Central Elgin, it is important to be prepared for:
  • Power outages
  • Extreme weather
  • Floods
  • Freezing rain
  • Hazardous material(s) incidents

 

Step 2

Make a Plan
Creating an emergency plan for your family will help you prepare for what to do, how to find each other, and how to communicate with each other in an emergency. Include in your plan:
  • Information related to the special needs you or your family may have (people with disabilities, seniors, young children or pets)
  • Meeting place where your family will reunite after a disaster
  • All exit routes from your home and neighbourhood
  • Out-of-province friend or relative that your family can call if separated during a disaster

Practice your plan with all household members.

 

Step 3

Get a Kit
Your emergency kit should have items for your family to remain safe and taken care of for least three days. Pack the contents of your kit in something you can carry with ease and store it somewhere dry and easy to access. Include in your kit:
  • Two litres of water per person per day
  • Non-perishable food and manual can opener
  • Wind-up or battery powered flashlight and radio
  • First aid kit
  • Cash and extra keys
  • Important family documents such as identification, insurance and bank records
  • A copy of your emergency plan

Also consider including things related to your household's unique needs, such as prescription medication, medical equipment, pet food and infant formula.

 

Alert Ready App

Alert Ready sends emergency alerts to your cell phone and other wireless devices! This nationwide system warns you about emergencies in your area so you can take action. Check out Alert Ready to see if your mobile device is compatible.