Emergency Preparedness Week 2024

The City is reminding residents and visitors to Be Prepared, especially during Emergency Preparedness Week. This annual national event takes place May 5 - 11 and aims to increase awareness of individual and family preparedness across Canada. 

The national theme for this year’s Emergency Preparedness Week is “Plan for every season.”  This theme reflects the unique challenges facing Ontario on a seasonal basis and the opportunities to practice emergency preparedness throughout the year. Ontario’s theme complements the national theme released by Public Safety Canada.  

The City will be sharing tips to stay safe and prepared during different types of emergencies next week.  The City’s website, OwenSound.ca/BePrepared, lists local emergency resources and plans. 

Emergency Preparedness Week is a great reminder that emergencies don’t happen when you expect them to. The best ways to prepare include:  

Step 1 - Make a Plan  

Learn about different emergencies and how to be prepared. It only takes a few minutes for your family to prepare an emergency plan. Having a plan in place will save time and make real situations less stressful.  

Step 2 - Build a Kit  

An emergency kit will help you and your family stay safe until emergency responders can reach you. Personalize your kit to suit the needs of you and your family.  

Step 3 – Be Informed  

Stay tuned to local news channels during an emergency.  Be sure to include a portable, battery–operated radio in your emergency kit in the event of a power outage.  Learn more about Ontario’s hazards so you can be prepared for them and know how to protect yourself. 

For more information, please contact Heidi Jennen, Community Emergency Management Coordinator at 519-376-4440 ext. 3223 or email hjennen@owensound.ca 

Quick Facts:

• Emergency Preparedness Week takes place during the first full week of May across Canada. 
• The City reminds people to ‘Be Prepared, Know Your Risks’ and make a plan, build a kit, and be informed. 
• Visit the City’s website, OwenSound.ca/BePrepared, for more information and resources. 
• Follow @OntarioWarnings / @AlertesOntario on Twitter for updates on Emergency Management Ontario 
• Share how you're helping to make you and your family better prepared to cope during an emergency and use the hashtags #EPWeek2024 or #ReadyforAnything 

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