Emergency Preparedness

The Region of Waterloo has plans and partnerships in place to ensure a coordinated response to emergencies and disasters in the Region.

Planning a response for every type of emergency and disaster

Emergencies, by their nature or size, require a coordinated response by a number of organizations, both public and private, under the direction of elected and senior municipal officials.

The Region's Emergency Management Office (EMO) is responsible for developing, putting in place and maintaining the Regional Emergency Response Plan (ERP). This plan describes how the Region responds to emergencies. The plan describes the roles and responsibilities of the Region and our partners, including fire departments, police, and community agencies.

Ensuring people displaced by an emergency get what they need

The EMO is also responsible for the Emergency Social Services (ESS) Program. ESS helps people displaced by an emergency by providing food, clothing, lodging and other support. The Region works with the cities, townships and many agencies and organizations to provide these services when needed.

Preparing your family for an emergency or disaster

Every household should have an emergency plan and an emergency kit. You should be prepared to be in an emergency for at least 72 hours.

The plan will help you and your family react quicker in an emergency - especially if you are required to evacuate.

Things to consider when making the plan:

• Plan how and where to meet and how to contact one another.
• Discuss what you should do at home, at school or at work if an emergency happens.
• Plan to use the stairs instead of the elevators if you live in an apartment.
• Keep your plan in an easy-to-find, easy-to-remember place.
• Make a list of what needs to be done ahead of time.
• Store important family documents in waterproof containers.
• Write down and practice your plan with the entire family at least once a year.

Please visit www.AlertWR.ca to learn more about the programs, plans, and how to prepare yourself and your family for emergencies or disasters.