Emergency Services & Preparedness
For Emergencies dial 9-1-1
HOSPITAL Boundary Trails Health Center
Morden, Stanley, Winkler Emergency Management
What is Emergency Preparedness?
Emergency preparedness means being ready for unexpected situations that could endanger your safety, health, or property. It involves understanding the risks around you, having a plan, and being equipped to respond quickly and effectively to a range of emergencies.
Understanding the Risks
Every region has its own potential hazards. Being aware of the emergencies most likely to affect your area is the first step toward being prepared.
Common risks include:
- Severe weather (e.g., blizzards, heat waves, tornadoes, etc.)
- Floods and wildfires
- Power outages
- Pandemics and infectious diseases
- Industrial accidents (e.g., chemical spills, explosions)
- Transportation incidents (e.g., train derailments, crashes)
The Five Pillars of Emergency Preparedness
Building a strong foundation for safety involves ongoing work in these five key areas:
1. Mitigation
Reduce or eliminate risks before they become emergencies. For example:
- Reinforcing buildings to withstand earthquakes
- Creating flood barriers
- Clearing brush to prevent wildfires
2. Preparedness
Plan ahead so you're ready to act. This includes:
- Creating emergency kits
- Establishing a family emergency plan
- Practicing emergency drills at home and work
3. Response
Take immediate action during an emergency:
- Follow evacuation orders
- Access emergency shelters if needed
- Use emergency communication plans to check in with family
4. Recovery
Get back on your feet after the danger has passed:
- Access relief services and financial assistance
- Repair damaged property
- Seek mental health support if needed
5. Resilience
Build the ability to adapt and bounce back stronger:
- Learn from past emergencies
- Update your preparedness plan regularly
- Get involved in community safety initiatives
Planning for an Emergency
Having a plan helps reduce panic, ensures quicker response times, and can make all the difference in protecting your health, safety, and peace of mind. Whether it’s a sudden storm, a prolonged power outage, or a fast-moving tornado, being prepared means you’ll know exactly what to do—and how to stay connected and protected when it matters most.
What Should Be in Your Emergency Kit?
Your emergency kit should have enough supplies to support you and your family for at least 72 hours. Essentials include:
- Drinking water (2L per person per day)
- Non-perishable food
- Flashlight and extra batteries
- First-aid kit
- Medications
- Radio (battery-powered or hand-crank)
- Important documents (ID, insurance)
- Cash
- Clothing and blankets
Helpful Resources for Building Your Emergency Plan and Kit
Make a Family Emergency Plan
A plan helps your family stay connected and safe during emergencies. It should include:
- Meeting places (near home and outside your neighborhood)
- Emergency contacts
- Evacuation routes
- How to turn off utilities like gas and water
Stay Informed
During an emergency, staying informed is crucial. Use multiple channels:
- Local news and weather apps
- Official government alerts and notifications
- Emergency radio