Emergency Preparedness
Don't be scared. Be prepared.
At any time, an emergency or disaster could happen. Roads could be rendered impassible. Supplies could become unavailable. And services could be disrupted. Local, provincial and federal agencies do prepare for emergencies. However, individuals should be prepared both at home and at work. With changing weather and civil conditions throughout the world, it makes sense to seriously prepare for the unexpected. We should be prepared to take care of ourselves and our families for up to three days, should an emergency or disaster happen. Even a severe winter storm could result in roads not being cleared for up to three days.
Emergency Preparedness Week
Emergency Preparedness Week (EP 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 collaboration 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: Know the risks; make a plan; get an emergency kit. These three steps can help Canadians prepare for all types of emergencies.
Natural disasters may be beyond our control, but there are ways to reduce the risk and the impact of whatever emergency we might face - whether natural or human-induced.
Emergency Preparedness Week encourages Canadians to be prepared to cope on their own for at least the first 72 hours of an emergency while rescue workers help those in urgent need. This special week is a national effort of provincial and territorial emergency management organizations, and Public Safety Canada.
By taking a few simple steps, you can become better prepared to face a range of emergencies – anytime, anywhere.
It is important to:
- Know the risks – Although the consequences of disasters can be similar, knowing the risks specific to our community and our region can help you better prepare.
- Make a plan – It will help you and your family know what to do.
- Get/assemble an emergency kit* – During an emergency, we will all need some basic supplies. We may need to get by without power or tap water. Be prepared to be self-sufficient for at least 72 hours in an emergency. *While you’re at it, prepare an emergency car kit, pet kit and a kit for any senior member of your family.
Visit www.GetPrepared.ca or www.cyfs.ca
for more resources to help you and your family prepare for all types of emergencies.
Experience has shown that individual preparedness goes a long way to help people cope better - both during and after a major disaster.
Make your an emergency kit(s) now - it can make a world of difference.
Links to more information:
Town of Aurora By-law
Town of Aurora Emergency Response Plan
Town of Aurora Crisis Communications Plan
York Region Emergency Preparedness Guide
York Region Emergency Management Website
Emergency Management Ontario Website