Manitobans encouraged to take action during Emergency Preparedness Week

Manitobans are being encouraged to take proactive steps to protect their families, homes, and communities during Emergency Preparedness Week, which runs from May 4 to 10.

Transportation and Infrastructure Minister Lisa Naylor says the week is a timely reminder of the power individuals and communities have to get ready for potential emergencies.

“Emergency Preparedness Week is a great reminder that we are not powerless in the face of emergencies,” said Naylor in a press release. “There is a lot we can do, individually and collectively, to prepare and plan for potential hazards and emergencies, now and into the future.”

This year’s national theme is Be Prepared. Know Your Risks. The campaign urges individuals, businesses, and communities to understand the risks in their region and learn practical steps they can take to stay safe.

In Manitoba, wildfire season runs from April through October. Residents are encouraged to reduce the risk of wildfires by taking FireSmart actions around their homes and properties. More information on FireSmart can be found at gov.mb.ca/wildfire/firesmart.html.

Emergency Preparedness Week is supported by Public Safety Canada in collaboration with provinces and territories, Indigenous organizations, non-profits, and private-sector partners working together to strengthen emergency response at the local level.

As part of the awareness campaign, a test of the Alert Ready National Public Alerting System will take place on Tuesday, May 7 at 1:55 p.m. To learn more about the alert system, visit www.alertready.ca.

For more information about how to prepare for emergencies in Manitoba, visit www.manitoba.ca/emo.