ARCHIVED - Canadians reminded of importance of emergency preparedness

OTTAWA, April 29, 2011 —Spring flooding, severe storms, and earthquakes have recently reminded Canadians of the importance of emergency preparedness, making this year's Emergency Preparedness Week (EP Week) especially relevant. The 16th annual EP Week runs from May 1 - 7, 2011, and encourages everyone to take the time now to plan for the unexpected. The theme is “72 Hours…Is Your Family Prepared?”

EP Week is a national event coordinated by Public Safety Canada in collaboration with provincial and territorial governments and other partners. Canadians are encouraged to be ready to cope on their own for at least the first 72 hours of an emergency. This will enable first responders to focus on those in urgent need.

During EP Week, countless events are held across the country. Canadians are encouraged to take part in EP Week activities and to prepare for emergencies by following three simple steps:

• Know the risks - Learn how to prepare for the natural hazards in Canada and in your region. Tailor your emergency plan and kit to the common risks in your area.
• Make an emergency plan - Having a family emergency plan will save time and make real situations less stressful. During EP Week, draft or update your plan, and practice it with your family.
• Get an emergency kit- In case of a major event, you will need some basic supplies set aside. Many emergency kit items may already be in your home. This EP Week, take the time to update or assemble a basic emergency kit that meets your family's needs.

For more information on EP Week or for practical information on preparing for emergencies, visit GetPrepared.ca or follow @Get_Prepared on Twitter.

Information:

Media Relations
Public Safety Canada
613-991-0657

Date modified:

2015-11-26