Emergency Preparedness Week

Oliver Langdon, Minister of Municipal and Provincial Affairs and minister responsible for the Newfoundland and Labrador Emergency Measures Organization (NLEMO), announced today that the province of Newfoundland and Labrador will join in the national celebrations of Emergency Preparedness Week, May 6 - 12. Keeping Canada Safe - Emergency Preparedness Begins with YOU is this year�s theme for the annual event.

During Emergency Preparedness Week, people are encouraged to identify local risks and raise awareness of the importance of planning ahead for emergencies. Knowledge of the risks and a practical plan can help reduce fear and aid in recovery from an emergency situation.

"All levels of government have a role to play in emergency preparedness and response. But ultimately, effective emergency preparedness starts with individuals who plan ahead, know what to do before, during and after a disaster strikes," said Minister Langdon. "As well, municipal emergency response plans have a proven value in this province and have been quite effective when emergency situations arise at a local level."

To help promote Emergency Preparedness Week, posters have been distributed to schools, fire departments and municipalities through NLEMO. In addition, a Web site is available at www.emergencypreparednessweek.ca that outlines the objective of EP Week, links to preparedness materials, activities and other useful information.

"Although disasters which require a response from all levels of government are rare, we know as a result of events this past year, that they are possible. Whatever the magnitude of the emergency, being prepared is key in effectively dealing with crisis situations," added Minister Langdon.

For more information, please contact the Newfoundland and Labrador Emergency Measures Organization at (709) 729-3703 or the federal Office of Critical Infrastructure and Emergency Preparedness (OCIPEP) at (709) 772-5522.

Media contact:

Lynn Hammond
Municipal and Provincial Affairs
Newfoundland and Labrador
(709) 729-1983

Paul L�Arriv�eOCIPEP
(613) 991-7038

2002 05 06                          11:10 a.m.