Elgin County Recognizes Emergency Preparedness Week

For Immediate Release

Elgin County Recognizes Emergency Preparedness Week: Be Ready for Anything

Central Elgin, ON – 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 (May 2-8, 2021) encourages Canadians to take concrete actions to be better prepared to protect themselves and their families during emergencies. 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 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.

Visit www.getprepared.ca for more resources to help you and your family prepare for all types of emergencies.

This year, the COVID-19 global pandemic continues to have an unprecedented impact on Canadians. While governments at all levels are working hard to keep Canada safe; now, more than ever, we understand that we all have a role to play in emergency preparedness. You can help to protect yourself, and others, against COVID-19 by staying informed. We encourage all residents and visitors to Elgin County to visit the Southwestern Public Health website at www.swpublichealth.ca for the latest information on the response to COVID-19 and more tips on how to continue to help prevent the spread.

This week, I encourage you to take concrete actions to be better prepared. Please do your part! Experience has shown that individual preparedness goes a long way to help people cope better – both during and after a major disaster. Get an emergency kit now – it can make a world of difference.

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For additional information, please contact:

Jeff VanRybroeck
Elgin County Emergency Management Coordinator
jvanrybroeck@elgin.ca

Warden Tom Marks
tmarks@elgin.ca