Be Prepared: City of Winnipeg Reminds Residents How to Stay Ready for Emergencies

Winnipeg, MB - It's time for Winnipeggers to focus on being ready for the worst.

May 3-9 is Emergency Preparedness Week, and we're encouraging people to take simple steps to prepare for emergencies.

Planning ahead can help protect people, families, and pets when emergencies happen.

"Emergencies don't wait, and often they don't give warnings," said Mayor Scott Gillingham. "The City is ready to respond, but the more prepared you are, the safer you and your family will be. A few simple steps taken now can make a real difference when it matters most."

Residents can start by taking the City's free, online Ready Winnipeg course. The self-guided course explains the hazards most likely to affect Winnipeg, what to expect during an emergency, and how to prepare ahead of time.

Teachers and community groups can also request a free, customized in-person presentation from the City's Office of Emergency Management. Last year, the City delivered 67 presentations to 1608 residents, including children, adults, and seniors.

The course encourages families to take these four actions:

1. Identify special needs such as accessibility, medical care, or medications
2. Make an emergency plan
3. Build an emergency kit
4. Talk with your support network-family, friends, neighbours, and caregivers

"Preparedness is about giving yourself options. Think about everyone in your household and what you would need if you had to leave your home quickly," said Mike Olczyk, Emergency Management Coordinator. "When you have a plan, an emergency kit, and people you can turn to, you're better able to reduce the stress an emergency can bring by responding and recovering quickly."

Emergency preparedness habits to start today:

• Think about your current situation and what your family would need during an emergency.
• Build or update a household emergency kit. Add a few items each month to make it financially manageable.
• Pack a small "go bag" in case you need to leave quickly. Include medications, baby supplies, pet items, and important documents.
• Create and regularly update an emergency plan. Include key phone numbers, identification, and how to contact family if you are apart.
• Include pets in your emergency planning. Make sure they have food, water, and a safe place to stay.
• Create and practice a home escape plan with everyone in your household.
• Make sure you have property or tenant insurance and that your coverage is up to date.
• Take the free Ready Winnipeg course and encourage family, friends, and colleagues to do the same.
• Follow the City of Winnipeg and other trusted sources on social media for emergency updates.

For tools, checklists, and step-by-step guidance, visit winnipeg.ca/emergencypreparedness.

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