Planning A Priority During Emergency Preparedness Week

Emergency Management Office

Published Monday, May 3, 2010

The Emergency Management Office is reminding all Nova Scotians to make emergency planning a personal priority during Emergency Preparedness Week, which runs until May 8.

Quotes

“Nova Scotia has endured hurricanes, floods, forest fires, blizzards and ice storms. Emergency Preparedness Week is an important reminder that taking a few simple steps can help us be ready for the unexpected.” Emergency Management Minister Ramona Jennex

“When you leave your home and you are in a hurry, you don't know what to take.” Terri Mingo, of Truro, who lost a lot of her possessions in a flood

“Get your affairs in order and have a grab-and-go box. Most of all, don't think it can't happen to you. It can, and disasters can happen quickly.” Lara Ryan, of Halifax, who lost her home in a forest fire a year ago

“Take the time to know the risks in your community, plan your response to a potential crisis, and assemble a kit of basic supplies to have on hand. Most disasters are beyond our control. But you can improve your readiness for almost any emergency.” Steve Mills, Emergency Management regional planning officer

Quick Facts

According to the Canadian Red Cross, almost 2,600 people in Nova Scotia were forced from their homes unexpectedly in 2009 by emergencies such as residential fires, flooding and evacuations from forest fires, fuel or chemical leaks, and other causes.
The national theme of Emergency Preparedness Week is 72 Hours ... Is your family prepared?
It emphasizes the importance keeping a kit of basic supplies on hand that will allow families to get by on their own during the first 72 hours of a disaster, while first responders help those most in need of assistance.
The Emergency Management Office is responsible for ensuring prompt, co-ordinated responses to emergencies. EMO works hand-in-hand with municipal authorities to provide assistance in planning for emergencies, co-ordinating province resources when an emergency occurs, and assists with analysis and evaluation after an emergency.