Minister Highlights Emergency Preparedness

I rise in this House of Assembly today to acknowledge May 2- 8 as Emergency Preparedness Week in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Recent events across the globe have heightened our awareness to the fact emergencies can happen at any time, anywhere, without any notice. However, we can look to our own communities across this province for positive examples of how residents have learned that preparation is key.

Earlier this year, a number of communities throughout the Bonavista and Trinity Bay areas were impacted by an ice storm, resulting in downed power lines and treacherous travelling conditions. While the municipalities worked in conjunction with local emergency responders and Newfoundland Power officials to supply power to community reception centres and eventually restore electricity, able-bodied residents showed they were well prepared to take care of themselves until the necessary repairs could be made. As communities across the province continue to look at ways regional co-operation can assist in emergency planning, residents need to look at their own level of preparedness.

Emergency Preparedness Week is an opportune time for all residents to ensure they are prepared for the many emergency situations that can arise. While emergency preparedness is a shared responsibility among all levels of government, being ready for the potential challenges truly begins at home.

This week is designed to heighten awareness and encourage Newfoundlanders and Labradorians to take concrete action. Everyone should be ready to cope on their own for at least the first 72 hours, to allow first responders help those in urgent need and residents are encouraged to follow three simple steps; know the risks in your region, make an emergency plan, and assemble an emergency kit.

There will be a number of opportunities this week throughout the province to learn more about what you can do to help prepare yourself and your family for emergency situations. I encourage families to make it an event—take advantage of the information and work together to develop their own home emergency kit.

Disasters can strike at any time, but hopefully planning for the possibilities will help residents meet their immediate needs during an emergency and assist in speedy recover.

To get prepared, visit www.gov.nl.ca/fes and www.epweek.ca.

2010 05 05                2:15 p.m.