Justice and Public Safety
May 5, 2015

Enhancing Emergency Preparedness in Communities

Provincial Government Recognizes May 3-9 as Emergency Preparedness Week

This week, May 3-9, is the 20th annual Emergency Preparedness Week throughout Canada. The theme of this year's event is "Know the Risks."

"Emergency preparedness is a shared responsibility that we all must take seriously. During Emergency Preparedness Week, I encourage all residents of the province to follow this simple advice: Know the Risks, Make a Plan, Assemble an Emergency Kit. By taking a few simple steps now to ensure your family and personal property are prepared for an emergency or large-scale disaster, you will lessen the potential impacts if something were to occur. While governments of all levels are working hard to keep Newfoundland and Labrador safe, everyone has a role to play in being prepared for an emergency."
- The Honourable Darin King, Minister of Justice and Public Safety and Minister Responsible for Fire and Emergency Services-Newfoundland and Labrador

By taking a few simple steps, Newfoundlanders and Labradorians 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 your community and your 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, a number of basic items are required. You may need to get by without power or tap water. Be prepared to be self-sufficient for at least 72 hours in an emergency.

More advice on how to prepare for an emergency is available at www.getprepared.gc.ca .

Emergency Preparedness Week is a national awareness initiative that has taken place annually since 1996. It is a collaborative event undertaken by provincial and territorial emergency management organizations supporting activities at the local level, in concert with Public Safety Canada and other emergency management partners.

QUICK FACTS

• May 3-9 is Emergency Preparedness Week throughout Canada.
• Residents should know the risks in their communities, make a plan, and get an emergency kit.
• Approximately 280 communities throughout Newfoundland and Labrador have an emergency management plan in place, and the Provincial Government launched a Provincial Emergency Management Plan on February 8, 2013.

- 30 -

Media contact:

Bradley Power Public Relations Specialist Fire and Emergency Services-Newfoundland and Labrador 709-729-0857, 690-1810 bradleypower@gov.nl.ca

2015 05 05                              10:20 a.m.