Have a plan to be prepared for unexpected emergencies encourages Milton fire department

Emergency Preparedness Week kicked off yesterday in Milton and local officials are urging residents to take concrete actions to be better prepared to protect themselves and their families during an emergency.

Running from from May 7 to 13, Emergency Preparedness Week is a federal-provincial-territorial initiative to promote emergency preparedness across Canada and has been taking place annually for over 25 years.

By taking a few simple steps, residents can become better prepared to face a range of situations, anytime, anywhere.

Local officials say it is important to:

• Know the risks – Halton Region is vulnerable to a variety of natural, technological and human-caused hazards. Residents are encourage to make sure they know what the hazards and risks are in the area they live.
• Make a plan – It is important that residents know what to do if an emergency of any size happens, especially when separated from family.
• Get an emergency kit – An emergency kit can ensure that residents will be self-sufficient for at least 72-hours.

Beginning this month, to coincide with Emergency Preparedness Week, Milton Fire and Rescue Services is launching their Home Safe Home program.

This program, which runs from May to October, sees fire crews visiting homes throughout Milton to offer free inspection of smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, while educating residents on fire and life safety practices.

For residents who may not be home during a visit, Milton Fire and Rescue Services will leave behind a friendly ‘door-hanger’ with tips for homeowners on how to ensure they have working smoke and carbon monoxide alarms. These have also been translated to address language as a potential barrier.

To learn more about being prepared, visit Milton Fire and Rescue Services’ Emergency Preparedness page.