Running from May 1 to 7, Emergency Preparedness Week is an opportunity for everyone to ensure they are prepared to protect themselves, their family and their community during an emergency. With 41 per cent of Albertans feeling unprepared for emergency situations, the week aims to help make preparedness approachable, understandable and attainable.
The intent of this year’s theme is to encourage Canadians to take action to become better prepared for the range of emergencies they could face in their region. Residents are urged to add simple preparedness habits to their daily routine, including:
- Knowing and understanding the risks in their community.
- Starting conversations around preparedness.
- Staying informed and having access to information.
- Creating a household emergency plan.
- And gathering supplies over time for emergency kits.
“We all have a responsibility to raise awareness about being prepared for disasters, emergencies and unexpected situations,” says Stacey Loe, Director of Emergency Management for the Town of Cochrane. “Emergencies can happen at any time and without warning. Understanding the risks, creating a household emergency plan and kit and staying informed can all help us better prepare and respond safely in an emergency.”
The highly important week provides an opportunity to strengthen the call-to-action in being prepared for anything. This year’s theme, “Be Ready for Anything” – is a reminder that preparedness isn’t just about being ready for disaster but making preparedness a regularly practiced activity.
Emergency Preparedness Week is a national event that has run for more than 25 years in Canada. Public Safety Canada coordinates this event in close collaboration with the provinces, territories and other partners.