“Be Prepared. Know Your Risks."
Elgin County Encourages Residents to Ready Themselves for Emergencies during Emergency Preparedness Week 2023

May 5, 2023
For Immediate Release

Central Elgin, ON – The County of Elgin is reminding residents ahead of Emergency Preparedness (EP) Week, May 7 – 13, 2023, about the importance of preparing themselves and their families for a wide range of potential emergency situations. EP Week is a nationwide initiative that aims to raise awareness about emergency preparedness in Canada.

The theme for this year’s EP Week is “Be Prepared. Know Your Risks.” The goal of this theme is to inspire residents to take steps towards becoming better equipped to handle the various emergencies that could occur in their area. It is important for everyone to recognize that they have a role to play in emergency preparedness, and EP Week is the perfect time to take action.

“On behalf of Elgin County Council, I’d like to express our gratitude for the dedication and commitment of our emergency management professionals who work tirelessly to keep our communities safe,” said Elgin County Warden Ed Ketchabaw. “By taking the time to understand the potential risks and hazards in our region, residents can better prepare themselves and their families for a variety of emergency situations.”

Below are three simple steps toward being prepared:

• 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, everyone needs some basic supplies. Individuals may need to get by without power or tap water. Be prepared to be self-sufficient for at least 72 hours in an emergency.

By taking a few simple steps, you can become better equipped to face a range of emergencies – anytime, anywhere. Follow our Elgin County Facebook Page over the course of EP Week to learn some emergency management tips and tricks and to enter our giveaway contest to win a two-person emergency kit.

For more about how you can get prepared, please visit www.elgincounty.ca/emergency-preparedness.

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For additional information, please contact:

Stephanie Cyros
Emergency Management Program Coordinator
scyros@elgin.ca
(519) 631-1460 x177

Andrea Loughlean
Manager of Emergency Management
& Elgin-Middlesex Regional Fire School
aloughlean@elgin.ca
(519) 631-1460 x123

Warden Ed Ketchabaw
warden@elgin.ca
(519) 619-8432