City of Brantford is joining communities across Canada to recognize Emergency Preparedness Week, which is May 5 through May 11, 2024.
Following this year’s theme of “Plan for every season”, the City is encouraging residents to consider the variety of seasonal hazards such as extreme wind, heat and cold as well as flooding, lightning, and snowstorms when preparing for an emergency.
“It is important to get ahead of the hazards we may face with the changing seasons,” said Kris Lutzi, Community Emergency Management Coordinator for the City of Brantford. “This year we’re encouraging residents to consider seasonal preparations that can make a big difference in their personal safety and help avoid damage to their property.”
When planning for every season, the City recommends the following steps to become better prepared for an emergency:
- Account for changing weather conditions when refreshing your home and vehicle emergency kits (e.g. bug spray, sunscreen, seasonal clothing, hot packs, snow shovel, etc.).
- Spend time protecting your home against potential extreme weather associated with the incoming season (e.g. increasing tree cover for shade, removing loose objects in your yard prior to high winds, testing your sump pump in case of floods, sealing your home against cold drafts).
- Stay alert and connected by downloading a weather alert app, updating your emergency contacts and getting to know your neighbours to create a network of support.
As part of Emergency Preparedness Week, the City of Brantford is offering residents a chance to win a 72-hour emergency go bag (valued at over $150) from the Brantford Fire Department. Visit the City of Brantford’s Instagram page on Monday, May 6, 2024 and correctly answer the emergency preparedness trivia question for a chance to win. Contest closes on Saturday, May 11, 2024 at 11:59 p.m.
Visit Brantford.ca/EPWeek for more resources to help you and your family prepare for all types of emergencies and follow along on social media with the hashtag #BrantfordEPWeek.
