Halton Region’s emergency responders gathered together to celebrate First Responder’s Day (May 1) and kick off the 2015 Emergency Preparedness (EP) Week (May 3 to 9). Members of the Halton Regional Police Service, Halton Paramedic Services and local fire departments joined emergency management professionals to help promote this year’s Emergency Preparedness Week theme: I am Ready. We are Ready.
Community safety remains a top priority for Halton Region and I would like thank all of Halton’s first responders for their ongoing efforts and for helping to keep Halton the safest community in Canada. This year’s Emergency Preparedness Week theme serves as a great reminder that emergency preparedness is everyone’s responsibility. I ask all our residents to reach out to others who may be vulnerable or unable to support themselves during an emergency, including family, friends and neighbours.
The Province of Ontario designated May 1 as First Responders’ Day to celebrate the sacrifices and hard work of First Responders who have devoted their lives to public service. Emergency Preparedness Week is a national awareness initiative that encourages residents to take steps to be prepared for a range of emergencies. It aims to raise awareness of the three key steps to being prepared for an emergency:
Step 1: Know the hazards and risks in your area;
Step 2: Make a plan to protect your family in the event of an emergency; and
Step 3: Get an Emergency Go-Kit so that you and your family are self-sufficient for at least 72 hours.
In celebration of Emergency Preparedness Week, Halton will have staffed events and visual displays set up at a number of locations throughout the region. For more information about event times and locations or to download Halton’s Personal Emergency Preparedness Guide and instructions on emergency kits, visit halton.ca/beprepared. To learn more about Halton Region’s Paramedic Services, CPR/AED training videos, visit halton.ca/cpr, visit or dial 311.
For fire safety tips, visit your local municipality’s fire department website. For fact sheets and information about how to protect yourself in any situation, visit www.haltonpolice.ca.