Emergency Preparedness Week raises awareness

Emergency Preparedness Week has been approved in Yorkton for the week of May 7 to 13.
“In my role as Emergency Social Services Coordinator, I want to bring your attention to Emergency Preparedness Week (EP Week). Emergency Preparedness Week is an annual event that takes place each year during the first full week of May. This national event is coordinated by Public Safety Canada, in close collaboration with the provinces and territories and partners,” said Lisa Washington, Community Development Manager in making a presentation to the regular meeting of Yorkton Council Monday.
This year, the Get Prepared campaign theme is Plan. Prepare. Be Aware.
“It is meant to help Canadians take action to protect themselves and their families during emergencies,” said Washington.
Washington said the week focuses on creating awareness.
“Through the Get Prepared campaign, Canadians have learned to know the risks, make a plan, and get an emergency kit. This year’s theme highlights the importance of having these measures in place but specifically emphasizes the need to keep up to date on current conditions, like the weather, that might impact you. In Yorkton, we have experience with flooding and other high water events but also need to prepare and be aware for more destructive weather like tornados,” she explained.
“Everyone has a role to play in being prepared for an emergency and building awareness is a great first step towards being ready for emergencies. Knowing the risks, making emergency plans, and getting emergency kits ready can help Yorkton residents prepare for emergencies. Being prepared for anything nature sends our way is a part of life in our province. Emergencies can strike at anytime and anywhere, often with little or no notice. Preparedness starts at home and whether you are eight or eighty, everyone has a role to play in being better prepared. In an emergency, families should be able to survive without assistance for three full days - 72 hours. However, that takes planning, which is what Emergency Preparedness is all about - being ready for nearly anything.”
In recognition of Emergency Preparedness Week, Yorkton Fire Protective Services is hosting a free hotdog lunch on Wednesday, May 10, 2017 from 11:30a.m. - 1:30 p.m., with donations being accepted on behalf of the Salvation Army, St. John Ambulance, and Red Cross. Those agencies will be on hand with Emergency Preparedness information and to answer questions.